Bolton Town Centre – Police Safety Advice for Shoppers

👮 1. Be Alert to Theft & Shoplifting

Keep phones, wallets and bags secure and close to your body — pickpockets look for easy targets in busy shopping areas.

Avoid leaving bags unattended, even for a moment while browsing.

Don’t display cash or cards unnecessarily when walking around busy streets.

Bolton South Neighbourhood Team have high-visibility patrols specifically targeting retail crime and shoplifting in the town centre, especially in December when footfall is high. 

🧥 2. Stay Aware in Crowds & Public Areas

Bolton’s town centre is busier in December due to festive events, shopping and markets — more people can mean more opportunity for thieves.

Keep personal belongings zipped and in front of you.

If someone distracts you (e.g., spills something or asks a question), be extra mindful of your valuables.

Police and partners regularly monitor known hotspots and increase foot patrols in areas with lots of shoppers during this period. 

💡 3. Report Suspicious Behaviour

If you see someone acting suspiciously (e.g., hanging around doors, closely watching people’s bags, trying handles on parked bikes/cars):

Call 101 (non-emergency) or 999 if it’s happening right now and you feel it’s serious.

You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

Your reports help police act quickly and may prevent others becoming victims.

🚶‍♂️ 4. Travel & After Dark Safety

Plan your route home before it gets dark — town centres get quieter in evenings.

Stick to well-lit streets and avoid empty side alleys.

If you feel unsafe, go into a nearby shop or café and ask staff to call the police.

🚗 5. Protect Your Vehicle & Bicycle

When parking or leaving your bike, secure them in visible, well-lit locations.

Don’t leave gifts, bags, or valuables on car seats where they’re visible from outside.

👥 6. Look Out for Anti-Social Behaviour

Bolton has local restrictions in place aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour such as street drinking, drug use and nuisance activity — making the town centre safer for shoppers and families. 

If you experience ongoing nuisance or feel at risk, report it via 101 or online so police and local partners can respond.

🧠 Quick Shopper Safety Checklist

✔ Keep valuables hidden and secure

✔ Stay aware in crowds

✔ Plan your route home before dark

✔ Report suspicious activity quickly

✔ Use well-lit parking and secure bike locks

✔ Ask officers or PCSOs for safety advice if you see them