BREAKING: Child seriously hurt after stranger tries to abduct them in the street

Police have launched an investigation after a stranger tried to snatch a child from their mum as they walked down a Bolton street.

The terrifying incident happened on Mayor Street at around 6.30pm yesterday (Tuesday), police said. The mum was walking with her child when an unknown man approached them.

He snatched the child and tried to run from the scene. Brave members of the public helped apprehend him before police officers arrived.

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A man, aged 23, was arrested on suspicion of kidnap. He remains in police custody for questioning.

The child was seriously injured in the incident with their mother left 'very shaken'. Police said the incident is being as 'isolated' but that patrols have been stepped up in the area.

Witnesses are being urged to come forward. Detective Inspector Tony Lunt of GMP Bolton CID said: "I'd like to thank the quick work and bravery of members of the public who assisted in detaining a man who was arrested by officers.

"He has been taken into police custody where he will be questioned. This was an incredibly distressing incident during which a child received serious injuries.

"Although these are thankfully not life-threatening, the mother of the child was understandably very shaken by the incident and is receiving support from specialist officers at this time. I understand the concerns it will raise in the community but I would like to reassure you that this is being treated as an isolated incident and there is not believed to be any wider threat to the community.

"You will see increased patrols in the local area throughout the next few days so please approach our officers with any questions or concerns you may have.