Two teenage boys have been arrested by police investigating reports of a rape in a well-used park.

Officers launched their investigation on Saturday morning, and have only released details today, Thursday.

Police say they have arrested two 16-year-olds and they remain in custody, whilst enquiries continue.

Queens Park was cordoned off on Saturday morning, and a number of officers and forensic teams were combing the area.

Detective Inspector Ruth Atherton from GMP Bolton Division said she understands the report of the rape will be "alarming" to people in the community, and police patrols have been stepped up in the area.

Local people are urged to speak to officers about any concerns they may have.

The Bolton News: Specialist officers are continuing to support the victim during this time.

Det Insp Atherton said: “On Saturday March 8 GMP were made aware of a suspected rape on Queen's Park.

"I understand that this will be alarming to our communities, but please be assured that we are following several lines of enquiry, and we have dedicated neighbourhood officers and PCSOs out in the local area.

“Please speak to them if you have any concerns.

“We do believe that this incident was targeted, and we have specialist officers supporting the victim at what is a very difficult time.”

Local councillor Cllr Akhtar Zaman told The Bolton News that he noticed the police presence in the area during an early morning walk.

He said: “I went out for a walk in Queens Park and saw the police.

“I went past the park again on my way back after about 30 minutes and saw the cordon in place.”

Anyone with information should call 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.