Man fighting for his life after being stabbed near Bolton Interchange

The 25-year-old is one of two men who were taken to hospital. The other man received slash wounds and has been arrested by police.

Police were called to Bolton town centre just after 6pm on Wednesday and a large police cordon was put in place and remained in place yesterday.

It covered Soho Street and Markland Street off Great Moor Street.

Now police have launched an appeal for information.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: “At around 6.15pm on Wednesday police were called to a report of a large group of people fighting in the street at the Bolton bus interchange.

“Officers attended and a 25-year-old male went to hospital with stab wounds and is in a critical condition with life-threatening injuries.

“A second male was also taken to hospital with slash wounds that are not believed to be life-threatening. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remains in custody.”

The scene this morning

He added: “Anyone who witnessed this incident, or anyone with information is asked to contact Bolton CID on 0161 856 5757 quoting log number 2440 of 12/01/2022.

“Information can also be reported online or by using the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk.

“If you can’t report online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Landlady of The Griffin Pub, Paula Crompton said that a man who had been stabbed went into the pub for help.

The pub was not involved in the incident.

She said: “It seems a man was stabbed in town and ran in The Griffin for help.

“I actually wasn’t there but obviously the police were quickly on the scene.

“My business will remain closed until police say otherwise.

“Also I would like to say myself and all of my staff are thinking of the victims and their families at this very worrying time.”

Police have been carrying out a high-profile operation in and around the bus station following reports of anti-social behaviour.

And on Wednesday night they said specialist officers were again sent to the station following anti-social and criminal behaviour, during which staff were abused by youths.

Local businesses in the area said they were shocked to see cordons in place when they opened up yesterday morning.