A man appeared in court following his arrest for allegedly possessing an offensive weapon in public.

William Steel, 36, was arrested at 12.45pm yesterday (Wednesday, August 17) on Hotel Street in Bolton town centre.

He was then taken into custody where he was questioned and later charged.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "Officers responded quickly to the reports and arrested a 36-year-old man for ‘possessing an offensive weapon in a public place’ and taken into custody for further enquiries.

“William Steele (20/02/1986) of Bentley Street, Bolton was charged with ‘possessing an offensive weapon without lawful authority or reasonable excuse’.

“He was remanded in custody and attended Wigan and Leigh Magistrates court earlier this morning.

Greater Manchester Police said the incident was not connected to the Drag Queen Story Hour event hosted at Bolton Library or the protestors.

The spokesperson added: “We would like to emphasise to members of the public that this incident was unrelated to any events that were taking place in the town centre on the day.”