A MAN is being treated for horrific burns after he claimed he was doused in petrol and set on fire by hooded kidnappers.

The 28-year-old victim walked about half a mile for help after being driven to a remote area off Lakes Road, Marple.

He has told police two men wearing balaclavas snatched him and took him in a van to the location which is near lakes, the River Goyt, and a golf course.

After splashing him with petrol they set fire to him in the vehicle.

The man managed to stagger to Beechwood Drive where he called at a house and residents for help.

Paramedics treated the man at the scene and he was taken to Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport. He was later transferred to Wythenshawe Hospital's specialist burns unit where he is in a stable condition.

It is understood the victim suffered burns to his lower body and forehead. Fire crews were called to the Transit van which was still burning when they arrived.

The alarm was raised just before 10pm last night. A major investigation has now been launched by police and the fire service.

It is understood the van had been driven to the end of Lakes Road near to Bottom's Hall and Roman Lakes a popular venue for course fishing.

Detectives were hoping to speak to the victim again later today.

He has told them he was walking in Marple last night when the van pulled him and he was bundled into it.

In a statement Greater Manchester Police said: "Shortly after 9.50pm on Sunday July 27th, police were called by the Ambulance Service to Beechwood Drive in Marple following reports that a man had been seriously burnt.

"Officers attended and found that a 27-year-old man had 40 per cent burns to his body. He was taken to hospital for treatment, where he remains in a stable condition. His injuries are not life threatening.

"At around 10pm on the same day, police were called to Lakes Road in Marple following reports that a van had been set alight. Inquiries into the man's injuries and the fire to the van are ongoing."