A SAWN-OFF shotgun, ammunition and up to £50,000 worth of suspected stolen goods have been seized after a raid at Bolton’s travellers’ site.

Police raided Crompton Lodge Caravan Park in Hall Lane, Moses Gate, on Thursday, where they found a loaded sawn-off shotgun stashed in the roof of the communal shower block, along with ammunition.

Police also seized up to £50,000 of suspected stolen electrical goods that were found hidden in the communal areas or in ownerless or vacant caravans.

Det Insp Denise Pye said: “What we seized from this park shows it was being used as a criminal hide-out, with thousands of pounds worth of suspected stolen goods, caravans and a loaded sawn-off shotgun.

“We have now a lot of evidence which we need to examine in detail to establish where they came from.

“However, what we can say is that the recovery of a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition means one less weapon on the streets of Bolton that could be used to seriously injure or even kill someone.

“By seizing this weapon I have no doubt it will save lives.

“As always, what this shows is what can be achieved when police and the community work hand-in-hand and take a stand against organised criminality.”

The raid was carried out by the Farnworth integrated neighbourhood policing team and Bolton’s organised crime unit, with help from Greater Manchester Police’s tactical aid unit.

Two suspected stolen vans and two suspected stolen caravans were also seized by police. Two men were arrested on suspicion of breach of peace during the raids.

Police said all the items seized have now been sent off for forensic analysis.

Anyone with information can call police on 0161 8565660 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.