UNION Flags worth about £3,000 were stolen from a training base in Leigh.

The four ceremonial flags and poles were stolen from the Air Training Corps base in Windermere Grove between 9.30pm on Tuesday and 6.30pm on Thursday.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

PC Paul Hardman said: “The training corps is a valuable part of the local community in Leigh and this has been a big blow to them. To replace the flags, it will cost about £3,000, money they cannot afford.

“Not only were the flags stolen but the poles were taken too. I would ask anyone who may have seen people walking off from the base with the property to call us.”

One of the Union Flags has a lion print in the middle with two swords crossing in the background.

Anyone with information should phone police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.