Two arrested following firearm discharge in Farnworth

At around 5.42pm yesterday (3 December) police were called to a report of gun shots being heard in the Netherton Grove area of Farnworth, Bolton.

Inspector Helen Atherton, of GMPs Bolton Neighbourhood Team, said: "Officers quickly attended the scene after receiving the report and our initial enquiries have established that a group of teenage boys appear to have been in possession of a blank firing weapon.

"Two boys in their late teens have been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and they remain in custody this morning for questioning.

"I would like to reassure the public that this seems to be an isolated incident and we believe that the group were not using the firearm to threaten anyone.

"The firearm has not yet been located but searches are being undertaken this morning in an attempt to retrieve it, so local residents may see an increased police presence in the area today.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Bolton CID on 0161 856 5757 quoting log 2240 of the 3^rd December 2021.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."