An area was taped off on one of Bolton town centre’s busiest roads after a man was assaulted in the early hours of the morning.

The incident happened just after 2am on Saturday September 16 on the corner of  Bradshawgate and Silverwell Street, a town centre area renowned for its nightclubs, pubs and takeaways.

Police were seen and a cordon put around the area, while a man was taken to hospital with injuries to his head.

Cllr Rabiya Jiva, council cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “If an incident of violence has occurred then anyone who may know anything really needs to come forward and help the police with their investigation.

The Bolton News: The way was clear by the following afternoonThe way was clear by the following afternoon (Image: Newsquest)

“Everyone in Bolton has the right to enjoy our town centre without having to fear for their safety and we really need people’s help to make that a reality.

“So I would appeal to everyone to please enjoy nights out responsibly and if you know anything about this incident please come forward.”

Cllr Jiva, whose role includes policing and public safety, says she hopes this will impress upon people the importance of looking after each other's wellbeing when on nights out around Bolton.

As yet no arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing. 

Photographs from the scene in the early hours show several officers stood with a police car at the taped off area that had once been the Downtown Bar.

The building has since been redeveloped into housing.

By Saturday afternoon, the scene had been cleared and there were no police or emergency services there. 

Passers by that day appeared unaware of what had occurred in the early hours of that morning.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "At around 2.05am this morning, Saturday September 16 2023, officers were called to reports of an assault on Silverwell Street, Bolton.

"A man was taken to hospital where he was treated for injuries to his head.

"No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing."

Anyone with any further information or concerns can call police on 101 or 999 in the event of an emergency.

Alternatively, witnesses can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.