Arrest made after reports of man 'threatening and assaulting' people along canal path

A suspect has been arrested following a number of reports of a man 'threatening and assaulting' members of the public on a canal path in Wigan.

There have been reports made to the police about a man targeting people close to the Bottling Wood Dam in recent days. One report included the use of a blade.

Officer patrols were increased in the area, with local councillors also contacting the police about the issue. A man in his 20s has now been arrested in connection with the incidents. Anyone who believes they have been a victim is being urged to report it.

Previously, Aspull, New Springs and Whelley Local Councillors posted on social media: "We have been in contact with local the police today regarding recent incidents at Bottling Wood Dam.

"Police did an emergency attendance on Saturday following reports involving a knife but couldn’t find the person. There have been further reports since Saturday but they cannot confirm if it is the same person. Police have increased patrols in the area and will respond to any further calls."

Independent councillor Maureen O’Bern also penned a letter to Greater Manchester Police following reports of a 'young man accosting members of the public and threatening them'.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "We have arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of assault, theft from person, public order and possession of offensive weapons following a number of reports about a man threatening and assaulting members of the public along the canal path of the River Douglas in Wigan.

"Our investigation suggest that we have the correct individual and if anyone else believes they have also been a victim of a crime similar, to come forward via 101 to record a report."