POLICE investigating the death of Breightmet mum Maggie Smythe have searched an area close to an abandoned golf course.

Residents living close to the former Bolton Open Golf Club, off Longsight Lane, reported seeing officers descend on the area shortly before midday.

They were seen searching bushes in the area, while a number of police vehicles were spotted parked up nearby.

Police have confirmed that the area has since been reopened.

One eyewitness, who asked not to be named, said: "There were about five or six police cars and vans.

"I have also seen forensics officers going into the park."

Another, who lived in Longsight Lane, said: "They arrived at about 11am, and left about 2.30pm.

"I do not know why they were here, but there were loads of them down by the old golf club."

Julie Handley was searching for her bulldog puppy, which has been missing since Saturday, close to the site of the former clubhouse, which was demolished two years ago.

She said: "The police told me I could not go on there because it was crime scene.

"We walked towards the river and they told us we needed to leave.

"There were police everywhere. They appeared to be looking in all the bushes."

A post published on the Harwood and Bradshaw Village Notice Board Facebook page this afternoon read: "If anyone is taking their dogs down to Longsight Park, you will only get so far.

"It's a crime scene & the police have cordoned a big section of it off."

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "Officers investigating the murder of Maggie Smythe have today conducted a search in the vicinity of Longsight Lane, Harwood.

"The scene has now closed.

"Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 9908, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."