Westhoughton: Male in custody after ‘serious assault’

Officers say a ‘male’ has been arrested but have not confirmed whether he is a boy or a man.

The attack took place on a footpath between Cricketers Way and Southfield Drive in Westhoughton.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) say  they are not looking for anyone else in connection with it.

Officers are asking anyone with any information about the assault to contact them.

A GMP spokesperson said: “Police are investigating the report of a serious assault in the Bolton area.

“Bolton CID have a male suspect in custody and are not currently looking for anybody else in connection with this incident.

“The victim is safeguarded and is being provided with specialist support. Police would like to speak to anyone in the area of Ryelands Court and Southfield Drive between 0645 and 0830 on October 7.

“If you have information, please call Bolton CID on 0161 856 5757 quoting log 928 07102023.”

The footpath was cordoned off yesterday morning, with police and CSI on the the scene throughout the day.

Cllr David Wilkinson said the path is used by ‘a lot of people’ due to its proximity to the town centre, but that these kinds of assaults are ‘rare’ in Westhoughton. 

Cllr Wilkinson said that police officers told him the cordon was in relation to an assault. 

He said: “These kinds of assault are very rare in Westhoughton, it is a relatively safe town. But it is extremely worrying, particularly for a female resident as to what could happen.”

“It is unpleasant to say the least, obviously it is very distressing for the victim. Being attacked can linger in a person’s mind for a long time.

“I hope the person recovers and it has no lasting effect, mentally or physically.”

Source – INDIA TV