POLICE are investigating after two flagpoles were stolen from the war memorial in Leigh.

Thieves struck at the Church Street memorial between midnight on Friday, August 6 and 6.30am on Tuesday, August 10.

Officers in Leigh have carried out inquiries and are now appealing to anyone who may be able to help to come forward.

Police Constable Barry Willans said: "It is hard to understand exactly why someone would want to steal these flagpoles, but the offenders need to understand that their actions have caused a tremendous amount of distress.

"We have been in regular contact with the British Legion who are understandably keen for justice to be carried out.

"We are appealing to anyone who was in Leigh on this particular weekend who may have seen anything that may assist this investigation to call us."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 872 5050 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.