AN award-winning Bolton pub was burgled in the early hours of yesterday morning with an investigation now underway to find the culprits.

The Spread Eagle, on Hough Lane, Bromley Cross, was targeted by burglars on Monday, January 3.

Having forced their way in through landlord George Campbell’s private living accommodation, they then stole various items belonging to the pub and several personal items belonging to Mr Campbell.

He said: “As well as items belonging to the business taken (which) can through time be replaced, they have also taken a watch and gold chain which were 40th and 21st birthday presents from my parents.

“The watch in particular had an engraved message on the back, it is a Ted Baker watch with a light brown strap.

“If anyone hears of anyone offered anything similar please could you let me know or contact GMP direct.

“I believe we were one of two break-ins on Hough Lane this morning and the police have told me they have a further four to attend across Bolton. Please stay safe everyone and be vigilant.”

The Spread Eagle is well known to the community in Bromley Cross as a former winner of the the Pub Shop category at the Great British Pub Awards in 2020.

During lockdown, the pub used its premises as a community shop where vulnerable people who were shielding could order food to be delivered with the help of volunteers.

The venue also teamed up with the Bromley Cross and Egerton Support Group to arrange for 170 afternoon teas to be handed out to residents on VE Day that year.

Now following the burglary, officers have echoed Mr Campbell’s call for witnesses to come forward.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “Police were called around 6.45am yesterday (January 3) to Hough Lane, Bromley Cross, Bolton, to a report of a burglary at a business premises.

“Enquiries are ongoing and no arrests have been made. Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or via our LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”