HOMEOWNERS have been warned to remain vigilant after three men in masks were seen trying doors to see if they had been left unlocked.

Police received reports that the men had been seen around the streets of The Cheethams, Eskdale Avenue and Scot Lane in Blackrod yesterday evening.

Officers were then sent to patrol the area, but also sent out a warning to residents to be aware of the reports.

A spokesman from Greater Manchester Police's Bolton North division tweeted: We are currently up in Blackrod following reports of three males in masks trying doors around The Cheethams/Eskdale/Newlands/Scott Lane.

"Before you go to bed tonight, please double check your doors & give us a bell if you hear/see anything suspicious."

Police have previously issued a number of warnings after similar reports, including one incident in January where a man was seen climbing into people's gardens and trying patio doors.

If you see anything similar to this give police a call on 101, or 999 for emergencies.