FEARS have been raised about a lack of policing after burglars struck twice in three days at a Post Office whose neighbours have previously been targeted.

Intruders smashed their way into Precinct News in Market Street, Little Lever, on Saturday morning and again at 1.45am today although whether the same culprit was responsible is unknown.

The newsagents, which is home to the Post Office, was closed until noon as repairs took place. Staff did not wish to discuss the break-ins.

Ukip ward councillor Sean Hornby said: “I am demanding action to catch these who are not just robbing but putting under threat services which we could lose.

“This is our village and our service and if this Post Office goes due to this we will lose a major service.

“I want an urgent meeting in Little Lever between the Police Inspector, Bolton Council and the shopkeepers to discuss this problem.

“I also want an increased police presence to not only sort this issue out but to tackle the on going problem of youths causing mayhem across the village centre and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.”

The Precinct News burglaries follows serious incidents at its immediate neighbours on both sides.

In July thieves used gas cannisters to blow open the ATM on the outside of neighbouring Nisa convenience store and got away with up to £60,000 in cash. The blast caused £20,000 worth of damage to the store’s interior and destroyed £15,000 worth of stock. 

Last month smash-and-grab raiders stripped the shelves almost bare of £15,000 of valuables at Howarth Jewellers.

Mr Hornby said: “Concerns have been expressed now for some time that the lack of police manpower is having a knock-on effect. 

“The Nisa store has been robbed several times, the jewellers robbed and now for the second time in three days the Post Office robbed as well.

“Little Lever centre is fast becoming a no go area for the public at night and weekends.”

A Post Office spokesman said: “We can confirm that attempted robberies took place in the early hours of Saturday December 10 and Tuesday December 13 at Little Lever Post Office, Bolton. 

“We will be supporting the police in their efforts to apprehend those responsible and would urge anyone with information to contact the police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”