Police says reports a young boy was followed by a man in a white van cannot be validated - but have appealed for anyone with information to contact them.

Officers were told the boy was on Bolton Road West in Ramsbottom at around 3.40pm on Tuesday when he was followed by the driver.

But "following a detailed police investigation, officers were able to negate this particular report", GMP has said.

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Police say that to pursue the crime further, they need more information from the public.

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Detective Sergeant John Nestor of GMP’s Bury district said: “We are aware of a number of members of the public who have expressed concerns via social media and to the local schools in Ramsbottom about suspicious behaviour around the local area.

“If you are concerned or see anything suspicious, please call 101 or 999 in an emergency and inform us.

“We are continuing to investigate; however, we are unable to pursue without further and factual information from the public.

“Our top priority is to keep the communities of Bury safe.

“Officers regularly patrol the local area for added reassurance, and if you have any concerns or questions, please talk to our officers, they are there to support you.”

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Information can be shared with police by calling 0161 856 8042 or 101 quoting log 2316 of 21/3/23.

Information can also be shared online using the LiveChat function at https://orlo.uk/MNGxF.

Alternatively, details can be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

If you have a story tweet @BuryTimes or @Alicegerrard157 or email alice.gerrard@newsquest.co.uk.