CRIME is on the rise and returning to pre-lockdown levels, Greater Manchester Police GMP) has said.

The force witnessed a reduction in crime when the lockdown was enforced at the end of March to help to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

But now it is "more in line" with the statistics before the Government restrictions were introduced.

Police is urging residents to keep following the rules too.

GMP's Assistant Chief Constable, Rob Potts, said “Although we initially saw a decrease in crime during the start of lockdown, since the easing of restrictions was announced, we are seeing crime return to levels more in line with pre-COVID.

“The pandemic still continues to present challenges to policing and society as a whole.

"It’s important that our communities follow the guidance in order to reduce infection rates and keep all of our loved ones safe, as well as relieve unnecessary strain on already stretched resources, allowing emergency services to help those in their hour of need.”