Police are stepping up patrols and urging residents to be extra vigilant after a spike in burglaries and thefts from vehicles.

Officers say the areas of Smithills and Halliwell have experienced a rise in property break-ins and car crime.

A spokesman for Bolton North Neighbourhood Team said: "There has been an increase in burglaries and thefts from cars and vans in the Halliwell and Smithills areas of Bolton over the last few days. Please ensure that you double check that you have locked your doors, windows, and vehicles.

"Extra officers will be out and about throughout the day and night in these areas. If you see anything suspicious or discover a crime, you can report it to us via 101 or on our website https://www.gmp.police.uk/. Please do not use social media to report incidents/crimes to us."

A new team was set up in Bolton last year to tackle burglary.

The Neighbourhood Priority Crime Team consists of one detective inspector, two sergeants and 12 constables.

It was launched in May and by the end of last year there were 276 arrests and 160 charges for burglary, robbery and vehicle crimes.

Bolton has been identified as a hotspot for this type of offending.

Police say they will thoroughly asses each and every burglary and investigate to bring offenders that threaten the safety of our community to justice and bring some level of comfort for victims.”