POLICE have charged a man with planting a hoax bomb in Bolton town centre.

Parts of the town centre had to be evacuated on Wednesday, November 5 after a suspicious package was found in Queen Street.

Officers carried out a controlled explosion and assessment and were able to confirm that the package was not an explosive device.

Helmat Ahmed, aged 29, of Derby Street, Bolton, has been charged with placing a hoax bomb and been remanded in custody.

Greater Manchester Police would like to thank the public for their patience while this matter was resolved and apologise for any inconvenience caused.