Messages circulating about an acid attack in Bolton are “categorically untrue”, an MP has said.

The WhatsApp messages had been circulating across the town in the wake of Sunday’s disturbances and had claimed that an acid attack had taken place today, Wednesday.

But Bolton South and Walkden MP Yasmin Qureshi says that having been in the town and spoken to police there she has been assured there is no truth to this.

Ms Qureshi said: “It came to my attention that this was circulating so I spoke to a police officer and was told that this was categorically not true.”

She added: “So I just wanted to put this out to reassure people and to hopefully calm things down.”

Police on Victoria Square on SundayPolice on Victoria Square on Sunday (Image: Phil Taylor)

Earlier in the day on Wednesday August 7 Ms Qureshi has said that she was aware of speculation about further protests in Bolton.

This came off the back of heated scenes in the town centre that saw far right protesters and counter demonstrators kept apart by ranks of riot police on Victoria Square and Bradshawgate.

Several people have since been arrested and charged, with some already having been sentenced in the magistrates’ court, with others still yet to be sentenced in the crown court.

Since Sunday a list has been circulating on messaging platforms of a list of immigration law firms around the country that far right activists are apparently planning to target.

This includes a firm in Bolton, with a counter-protest already having been planned in response.

In a public statement Ms Qureshi said: “I understand there may be some protests planned in Bolton today.

“I'm in touch with Greater Manchester Police who are prepared and have plans in place.

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“I urge residents to rise above any attempts at intimidation and thuggery.

“It is vital that communities do not respond by stooping to their level.”

She later added: “I also understand that there's WhatsApp messages circulating on an acid attack in the town centre and speculation on riots in the Rumworth area.

“I spoke to the Superintendent at 12.40pm today and can assure you this is categorically not true.

“Please verify info before sharing.”