The vehicle, a BMW, was spotted driving at speed on the M60 at about 12.20am on Sunday.

An officer on patrol followed the car and tried to stop it using emergency equipment on Stockport Road, but the driver continued heading towards the junction of Kingsway and Wilmslow Road.

It was there that the car collided with the woman and a 64-year-old man, who was also walking along the pavement.

The woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while the man was seriously injured and taken to hospital.

A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident.

Greater Manchester Police said it had referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct "in line with normal policy".

Sgt Phil Shaw said: "Tragically, a woman has lost her life as a result of this incident and our thoughts are very much with her family at this time.

"A full investigation has been launched and we are hopeful that there may be some witnesses who have dashcam footage that could assist with the investigation".

Anyone with information has been urged to contact police.