GMP are appealing to the public for further information after a stabbing in Bolton town centre

At around 2:25am this morning (Sunday 15 January 2023), officers were called to reports of a stabbing on Churchgate in Bolton town centre.

Emergency services attended the scene.

Upon conducting initial enquiries, it is believed the incident started as a fight between two sets of two males outside the Elephant and Castle pub on Churchgate.

During the incident one male is seen to produce a knife and stabs a male from the opposing group.

The suspect makes off along Deansgate and onto Crown Street.

His associate involved in the fight is arrested at the scene.

The victim of the stabbing is now in hospital and currently receiving treatment.

GMP are urging members of the public to come forward if they were in the area last night, have any dash cam footage or CCTV that can assist with officer enquires.

GMP are also keen to identify and locate the suspect and the other male at the scene as he could hold vital information in regard to this incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Rollinson of GMP’s Bolton district said: "Firstly, I would like to reassure the public that we are exhausting every possible line of enquiry that we have at present, and we are working hard to ensure the offender of this senseless attack is located and removed from our streets.

"We currently have a scene in place and that will remain in place while our officers conduct further searches and enquiries of the area.

"Greater Manchester Police will not tolerate any knife crime or criminal activity, and this is certainly no exception in Bolton. We will endeavour to bring the offender to justice.

"If you were in the Churchgate or Deansgate area around 2am this morning and saw the incident, saw any fights or disagreements, and believe this is them or you have any information no matter how small, it could be vital in our investigations.

"If you would like to report information to us, please contact 0161 856 5757 or 101 quoting log 293 of 15/01/2023.

"You can also report information using the reporting tool on our website: www.gmp.police.uk

"Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."