Police have released a statement in response to violence in Westhoughton after the clash between Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic.

The emergency services were called to Market Street at 4.30pm, two hours after the end of the match at the Toughsheet Stadium.

On arrival a man was taken to hospital with injuries which are not life-changing or life-threatening. He was a "bystander" according to an account by a councillor for the area.

Two men were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, then were bailed, and a dispersal order was actioned to ensure those involved cannot return to the town for 48 hours.

Chief Superintendent Steph Parker, the commander of GMP Bolton, said: "This kind of violence will not be tolerated in Bolton. We have launched an investigation and we are reviewing all of the footage and body worn footage to identify those responsible for yesterday's violence.

"If it is proven to be linked to the Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic game, we will be seeking banning orders on those identified, as well as prosecuting them."

Cllr David Wilkinson, a Lib Dem representative for Westhoughton South, said: "They are not human beings, they are not just people having a fight, they are scum.

“They brought terror to the streets, to men, women and children and we cannot have this kind of behaviour in Westhoughton."

Cllr David Chadwick, a Labour Group representative for Westhoughton South, said: "The serious disorder on Market Street after Saturday’s match between Wanderers and Wigan has no place in our communities.

“I want to thank Greater Manchester Police for their efforts on the day."

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or the LiveChat on gmp.police.uk.

They can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.