Nearly 3,000 illegal vapes, worth around £20,000 have been seized across Bolton.

The seizures were carried out by Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton West neighbourhood team with support for the council’s licencing and trading standards team as part of a day of action.

The day of action had been carried out in response to three medical incidents at a high school in the borough, which officers believe were linked to illegal vape use.

The Bolton News reported recently the headteacher of St Joseph's RC High School spoke about two incidents after two students collapsed in school from the effects of the devices - and called for more action to be taken.

Bolton police commander Chief Superintendent Steph Parker said: “The incidents at the school are concerning but we are working hard with colleagues and partners, including school staff and the council, to try to ensure these incidents aren’t replicated in Bolton or elsewhere.

“Health colleagues have already issued a warning in relation to illegal vapes which may produce a highly toxic gas but our conjoined efforts to keep people safe don’t stop there and this day of action and these seizures are just one example of ongoing hard work.”

All of the people involved in the medical incidents have made complete recoveries.

A total of around 2,800 suspected illegal vapes were seized. 

Officers have pledged to continue cracking down on the use and sale of substances like these all around Bolton.

Police Sergeant Jodie Ireland, of the Bolton Neighbourhood Prevention Hub, said: “The details of these incidents came into us via the School Engagement Officer, who was able to take a small quantity of vapes found on the premises for testing at police headquarters.

“As well as liaising with Licensing and Trading Standards to plan days of action, we are working with specialist colleagues to develop an input which can be delivered to young people to raise their awareness of illegal vapes and the potential side effects of using them.”

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Anyone who has used illegal vapes or cannabis oil vapes has been advised by police to monitor themselves for symptoms including a cough, shortness of breath or chest pain and to promptly seek medical attention if they have any concerns about their health using 111 Online or dialling 999 in an emergency.

People can also contact police using 101 if they have any other concerns about illegal vape use in their areas or 999 in the event of an emergency.

Alternatively, witnesses can call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.