A man has appeared in court accused of raping a woman in Bolton at the weekend.

Police were approached while out on foot patrol in the town centre in the early hours of Saturday by a woman in distress.

She told officers she had been the victim of a serious sexual offence.

The incident reportedly happened near Bradshawgate.

Police carried out enquiries and arrested four men earlier this week.

Three have been released on bail with further inquiries are being carried out.

But Prashant Gurung was charged with rape of a woman September 17 and appeared at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court yesterday, Thursday.

The 20-year-old, of Manchester Road, Bolton, did not make any plea.

The case was sent to Manchester Crown Court where he will appear next month.

Gurung was remanded in custody until the next appearance.

Detective Inspector Stuart Woodhead, of GMP Bolton’s CID, said after the incident that work would be done to keep town centres like Bolton safe.

He said: “We are thankful that this woman felt able to approach officers and quickly access specialist support whilst initial enquiries were completed. We are continuing to work with her and gather essential evidence.

“Greater Manchester Police is running a dedicated operation which polices the night time economy in our city and town centres, including Bolton.

"This will continue in the coming days and weeks.

"Anyone with concerns should approach officers or our force contact centre.”

Anyone with information should contact detectives via 0161 856 5757 quoting 598 17/09/22.

Information can also be shared, anonymously, via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.