A police operation launched to make the town centre safe at night has resulted in dozens of arrests officers have said.

Greater Manchester Police has released details of Operation Overspill just days after a number of violent incidents in Bolton town centre over the past days.

The operation launched in May in 'response to issues in the town centre'.

And there have been, say officers, nearly 50 arrests for a wide range of crime, including drunk and disorderly, assault, robbery, theft, sexual assault, threats to kill, criminal damage and racially aggravated public disorder.

Police patrols to be stepped up in town centre

The operation has also resulted in 12 dispersal notices being issued to remove groups from the town centre whose behaviour has or is likely to result in harm to members of the public.

Alongside Bolton Council, training has been delivered to staff ensuring they’re fully briefed on safeguarding, search powers, Challenge 25, and counter terrorism initiatives.

Chief Inspector Justine Topping, of GMP Bolton’s Neighbourhood and Partnerships team, said: “Keeping people safe as they enjoy the night-time economy is of great importance to both GMP and Bolton Council. Our officers are really invested in this operation to prevent and reduce crime in the town centre at night and, as a result, we have made a good number of arrests.

“We’re simultaneously running Operation Lioness which focuses on keeping women and girls safe –plain clothes officers patrol the town centre to combat predatory behaviour and safeguard anyone who is particularly vulnerable. Meanwhile, we are working with Bolton Council to ensure the safety of licenced premises and taxis. “We have every intention of continuing this operation to ensure long term benefits. As our good work in Bolton’s town centre continues, we are on the lookout for like-minded officers to join us - you can apply to be a police officer via gmp.police.uk/recruitment.”