POLICE chiefs are stepping up patrols in the fight against paving stone thieves.

In recent weeks, gangs have struck in Chorley Street and St George's Road, ripping up expensive York stone paving and leaving council bosses with huge repair costs.

Now town centre police patrols are urging people to help them in their fight.

A police spokesman said: "We will be keeping these areas under observation.

"We want to encourage people to contact us if they see people ripping up flags.

"Even if they think they are council workmen we would still ask them to make a not of vehicle registration numbers so we can then check them out.

"At the end of the day, these thefts ruin what is otherwise an historic part of the town. Whoever's done this is ruining the town's image."

The moves follow similar thefts around the town, including one in Deane Church's memorial garden when York paving was stolen and concrete paving smashed last month.

It is estimated that the historic stone pavings can fetch up to £80 per tonne, a price-tag which has seen thefts increase in recent months.

Paving has also been taken from gardens.

Paving stones on all adopted roads are council property, with the town hall being responsible for their condition.

Holes, left by the stolen flags in Chorley Street, have been filled with Tarmac, a temporary measure while engineers decide whether they can be replaced with matching flags.

Anyone who spots paving stones being stolen are urged to contact Bolton police on 0161 872 5050 or the council's environmental management hot-line on 01204 336600.