CHILDREN were being warned to be extra vigilant after a spate of bike thefts on the same day in Whitefield.

Thieves pushed three teenagers off their bicycles in three separate incidents on Thatch Leach Lane on Monday.

Police are advising young people to be aware of strangers who try to engage them in conversation before forcing them off their bikes.

A 13-year-old boy was stopped by a man at about 2.30pm. The thief started talking to him about the bike and then pushed him forcefully out of the seat.

At 7.20pm, two men threatened two 15-year-old boys and stole their bikes.

Police are investigating the thefts and are linking the three incidents.

The thieves were described as white, aged between 17 and 19, 6ft, slim build and had one had blonde hair and the other two had short brown hair.

PC Pat Hooper of Bury Police said: "We would advise people not to start conversations with strangers and just keeping cycling to where they are going. Just be aware of your surroundings."

Anyone with information is asked to call 0161 856 8212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.