Police officers in Bolton have recovered a stolen van thanks to help from members of the public.

Bolton South neighbourhood team’s PC Holt and PC Sharples attended after members of the public reported an abandoned vehicle in Farnworth on Sunday, September 1.

Greater Manchester Police say members of the public told the force it had been left there ‘for a number of days’.

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After officers attended, they confirmed the vehicle was stolen. Officers say the vehicle is now being returned to its rightful owner, with police carrying out enquiries to find out who was responsible for the theft.

In a post on Facebook, GMP’s Bolton division said: “PC Holt and PC Sharples of the Bolton South Neighbourhood Team attended a report of an abandoned vehicle in the Farnworth area today.

“Members of the public reported that the vehicle that had been left there for a number of days. Officers attended the area and located the vehicle, with police checks confirming it as stolen.

“Thank you to those that contacted us - the keeper has been notified and the vehicle is now on its way back to its rightful owner. Enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible.”

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According to Greater Manchester Police, lost or stolen vehicles are moved to police pounds for safekeeping after they are found.

Vehicles are removed to protect from damage or arson, or being stolen again, as well as to stop the vehicle from being used in a crime or anti-social behaviour, and to remove obstructions or danger to other road users.

While some vehicle owners are able to collect their vehicle straight away, in some cases a forensic examination is carried out – with owners having to wait.

Rightful owners may be liable for removal and storage charges to collect their vehicle, though they will not be charged for any time spent during any forensic examination, according to Greater Manchester Police’s website.

If vehicles are not collected after 14 days, they will be disposed of.

Greater Manchester Police says a vehicle’s insurer pays the charges in most cases, depending on level of cover and specific circumstances.

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.