Burglary investigation leads to man being charged with 25 offences

Police last week urged residents to ensure their homes were secure after a “spike” in the number of burglaries.

A 23-year-old man was arrested by Wigan west neighbourhood police officers at a property in Scholes on Friday.

Evan Smethurst, from Bolton, has now been charged with 25 offences, which include 14 burglaries and three vehicle thefts.

He was remanded into custody and is due to appear at Bolton Crown Court on February 10.