A man, 65, was suffered slash wounds in an attempted car robbery in Harwood.

The horrific attack took place in Longsight Park at 2pm yesterday when the  motorist was approched by two masked males in dark clothing and threatened him for the keys to his Range Rover vehicle.

One was armed with a machete and another with what is believed to be a dagger.

After refusing to hand over his keys, the man suffered slash wounds to the stomach and was taken to hospital.

The police helicopter and the air ambulance were both scrambled to the scene.

Detectives are now appealing for information and police have stepped up patrols in the area.

A 15-year-old male was later arrested at the location and has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector, Stuart Woodhead of Bolton’s CID said; “We understand this will be a worrying incident for those in the local area, but rest assured we are working hard to identify the two suspects and continue to increase patrols as a result to offer visible reassurance.

“This happened in broad daylight in a public place, so we would urge anyone with details either of the incident or who may know who the two suspects are to come forward in confidence as our investigation continues and we look at all possible lines of enquiry.”

The two suspects are believed to be both white males and approximately around the age of 20, having slim builds and heights of around 5’8” and 5’10”.

One suspect had a black baseball cap, black jogging bottoms and black tracksuit, wearing a ski mask covering the lower part of his face and was armed with a machete.

The other suspect also had a black baseball cap with a distinctive red trim, black jogging bottoms, black tracksuit top and wearing a full-face balaclava. This male was armed with what is believed to be a dagger.

Police and rescue helicopters scrambled over Harwood

Cllr Mudasir Dean, Bolton Council cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “It’s quite shocking what’s happened in Harwood. Generally, people think of it as quite a peaceful place.

“But there has been a few issues recently with antisocial behaviour with some youths.

“For a 15-year-old to be involved, if he was, in this level of criminality is absolutely disgusting.

“This park is regularly used by dog walkers, families, and people of all ages. I do hope that someone comes forward with some evidence to help catch the people responsible.”

If anyone has any information they are urged to ring the district direct on 0161 856 5757. Alternatively details can be shared via the LiveChat portal on gmp.police.uk or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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