A LORRY packed with £50,000-worth of Harry Potter toys has been stolen from an industrial estate in Bolton.
The vehicle and its trailer, containing 27 pallets of much sought after merchandise, was taken from Europa Way, Kearsley.
It had been parked there overnight when thieves struck in the early hours of Monday morning, stealing 27 pallets worth of goods, including The Wizard and Hangrid Dolls.
It is believed to be the first major theft of Harry Potter merchandise in the country.
It is not yet known if the thieves knew what was inside the lorry, but the goods are likely to sell quickly on the black market as the film continues to attract big cinema audiences.
The toys, this Christmas's "must-have" gift for children, were due to be distributed to Argos stores across the North-west.
Police in Bolton are appealing for anyone who may have seen the lorry or has been offered any toys on the black market to contact them.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "We are still investigating the theft and the lorry has not yet been recovered.
"The public are reminded if they buy the stolen goods they are committing a criminal offence."
The vehicle, an IVECO 400 Euro Tec, has the registration number N393 AVN.
Anyone with information should call 0161 856 5840. Harry Potter videos seized in market swoop: Page 9
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article