SCHOOLCHILDREN in Bolton are organising fights in public parks armed with knives and baseball bats, with the situation going from "bad to worse’", according to a well respected community organisation.

Disturbing videos have been circulating on social media says Bolton Council of Mosques (BCoM), which has released a statement about the worrying trend.

Its statement comes just days after police in Bolton increased its stop and search powers following intelligence – and appealed to for parents to keep an eye on their children.

The nature of the intelligence was not revealed – but last month, when the same powers were enhanced police told The Bolton News it was a result of fight.

Some of the incidents have involved youths armed with weapons such as baseball bats and knives, according to Bolton Council of Mosques (BCoM).

BCoM chairman Asif Patel said: "It is with regret we have to send this message out.

“You may have seen on social media over the last few weeks, students from some schools in Bolton have been involved in attacking each other after school, with the most recent attacks taking place on public parks.

"We are informed by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) these incidents are getting pre-planned and the consequences of such violence can have a huge impact on families and communities.

“Sadly, these youths are armed with baseball bats and knives, and the situation seems to be going from bad to worse.

"The consequences of such violence where weapons are used can have serious consequences, and in some cases a loss of life, where families suffer.

“GMP have already deployed extra officers and arrested some youths who may be involved.

"All schools have been made aware of the situation and are monitoring the situation.

“There are videos on social media, and the scenes are extremely disturbing.

“GMP have requested for everyone to be alert and any concerns should be reported to GMP."

Earlier this week, after stop and search powers were enhanced for a limited period, police urged parents to ensure they knew where their children were.

The Bolton News:

Chief Inspector Martin Ashurst, of GMP's Bolton district, said: "We've made the decision to authorise Section 60 powers to prevent violence and keep people safe.

"Alongside increased stop searches, we have deployed extra uniformed and non-uniformed officers.

"I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to parents/ carers to talk to young people about their plans for this afternoon/evening to ensure they are both safe and legal.

"GMP will not tolerate violent crime - preventing and reducing it is one of our highest priorities."