POLICE chiefs say efforts to stop thieves operating in rural Bolton will continue after a successful weekend clamp-down.

Extra officers patrolled streets in Edgworth following a spate of car crimes. Motorists were also stop-checked.

Police fear thieves were travelling to the area to target cars.

property from five cars in Edgworth has been stolen in recent weeks and two Landrovers have also been snatched from driveways.

Sgt Andrea Bradbury, of Darwen Police, said the extra patrols served to reassure residents and monitor the area.

Most of the recent thefts happened overnight.

Sgt Bradbury said: "The operation was a success. We did stop a number of known criminals from Manchester and Bolton in the area which proves there are people looking to steal property.

"We will continue looking for travelling and opportunist thieves in rural Bolton."

Darwen Police can be contacted on 01254 353844.