Man's body found as wooded area near school taped off by police

The body of a man was found in a wooded area near a school in Bolton this morning.

Police officers were first called to Chorley New Road in Horwich at around 7.20am to reports of concern for the welfare of a man. Sadly, the body of a man was discovered.

Officers taped off a wooded area, opposite St Joseph's RC High School, as crime scene investigators were called to the scene. Several police vehicles were pictured stationed on the main road near the school.

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A private ambulance was also spotted leaving the scene. Police said the man has not yet been identified.

His death is not believed to be suspicious at this stage. In a message sent to parents, St Joseph's RC High School said this morning the incident was 'isolated' and not linked to the school.

In a statement, a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "Officers were called to Chorley New Road, Horwich, Bolton, at around 7:20am this morning where the body of a man was found.

"Identification still needs to take place but it's not believed to suspicious."

The message to parents from St Joseph's said: "Please note there has been a police incident near school this morning. Whilst you may have been concerned please be assured all students are presently safe and in end of year assemblies and there is no need to be alarmed.

"This incident is an isolated incident and has nothing to do with school, staff or pupils, but police vehicles are parked next to school whilst dealing with it. Thank you."

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