VALUABLE stone gatepost ornaments are being targeted by thieves in Tonge Moor - where more than 20 have been stolen over the last 12 months.

Councillors and residents believe the heavy spheres, which adorn the top of gateposts, are being stolen to order by people carrying out building work.

They say thieves are loosening the red stones - which can only be lifted by two men - under the cover of night, before returning to remove them the following day.

Chairman of the Tonge Park Residents Association Eileen Coffey said that over the last year, more than 20 have been taken.

She said housing in the area surrounding Tonge Park - Parkdale Road, Alexander Road and Tonge Park Road - has been hit most often.

She said: "In some cases, several at a time are going missing. People are finding that they have been dislodged overnight, and then taken the next day.

"All the residents are very concerned. This spate of thefts is not opportunist. It is well-planned, and has to stop.

"These stone ornaments are very old - dating back to before the 1920s when the houses were built - and are difficult to replace.

"There must be people out there buying them. Why else would they be stolen?"

Tonge Ward Cllr Nick Peel said that the thieves were "literally stealing the heritage of the area".

He said: "I think these sculptures are stolen to order and go to people who may be renovating their homes or building new property.

"We are interested in finding out if anyone has been offered these type of ornaments for sale recently.

"We would ask people who are approached to contact police, or at the very least refuse to buy them."

Insp Tony Kenyon, of Bolton Police, said: "I would encourage people to report these incidents to us, so that we can investigate them.

"If anyone sees anything suspicious in the area, we would encourage them to give us a ring immediately."