BURGLARY and robbery victims throughout Bolton attended a police open day -- and ended-up being reunited with some of their treasured possessions.

The victims of crime were invited to inspect stolen property seized by the police in raids throughout the town.

Jewellery, televisions, mobile phones, electrical equipment, videos and computer games were all put on show at Bolton Central Police Station.

The haul was seized in raids on homes over the last two weeks.

If the rightful owners are not traced within months, police will auction off the goods.

Among the haul was a set of golf clubs worth £300 -- stolen from American Golf Discount in Horwich last week. The clubs were claimed by the shop owner.

Sgt Martin Bell, of Bolton Police, today advised homeowners to security mark their property so their possessions could be returned.

He also urged anyone with expensive -- and often sentimental -- jewellery to take photographs of items. Sgt Bell added: "A lot of property is not returned to its owners because we cannot trace who the rightful owners actually is. The emphasis has got to be on marking property. We spend hours trying to trace owners. People can help themselves if they security mark their goods."

A police operation -- codenamed Operation Kerr -- is being carried out in Bolton to crack-down on burglary.

A confidential hotline urging the public to "shop" burglars has also been set up. Contact 01204 370757.