POLICE divers discovered an antique flintlock as they searched the murky waters of a Bolton river.

Members of the Greater Manchester Police underwater search team found the old firearm in the River Croal.

The unusual discovery came as officers searched the water after a dramatic Rochdale car chase and siege which ended with a man holed up in a town centre builder's yard last year. Officers were called in to check the river for any discarded firearms which could have been thrown during the police chase.

But the only gun recovered in the river was a side-by-side flintlock period piece pistol!

Now officers at Bolton Central police station are on the hunt for the rightful owner of the gun.

Det Sgt Jack Charnock said: "We've had it checked out with antique dealers and are told it is probably worth something."

Anyone who recognises the antique firearm, which has a wooden stock and gun metal barrel, is asked to contact Bolton Central CID on 0161 856 5645.