Boys are rescued after clown chase

Park Bridge.

THREE youths needed rescuing after they were chased by a man dressed as a clown and got stuck on an embankment as they tried to escape.

Around 12 Oldham Mountain Rescue Team (OMRT) members rescued three 16-year-olds on Sunday evening after the boys had got stuck on an embankment.

The boys told the team that they were out walking when they were chased by a clown and they fled up Park Bridge to escape but then became lost.

When they became stuck on a steep embankment they contacted Greater Manchester Police who then asked OMRT for assistance in locating the boys.

After a number of phone calls to the boys OMRT were able to find their location through their GPS mapping system, Sarloc.

Using Sarloc, OMRT sent a link to one of the boys phones, who after finally getting an internet connection clicked on it, which revealed their location to the team.

Having located the boys it took the rescue team about half an hour to get them down and back home safely.

Mick Nield, leader on OMRT, said: "The police say that they are getting increased reports about these clowns. The lads were walking up Park Bridge, it is quite a steep area when you get up the valley and they were up on one of the embankments.

He said: "They were uninjured and fine in the end. It wasn't that dramatic but the real issue was locating them.

"We used the Sarloc system and sent them a link to our website which they clicked on and then after that we had their location. It is a good tool."

The clown that allegedly chased the boys was not found but GMP warned earlier this month that those dressing up as clowns in a bid to scare people will not be tolerated.

Catherine Hankinson, Assistant Chief Constable, said: "We are aware of this menacing craze, which originated in the USA, and will take action against those who are causing this fear.

"There has been a lot of speculation on social media and I'm urging people to refrain from fuelling this craze and creating more distress."

She said: "The safety of people is our upmost priority; we want people to feel safe going about their daily lives.

"The individuals who are getting involved in this may not realise just how frightening it is to be on the receiving end, especially for children."

She added: "It shows a complete disregard for people's wellbeing and will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester."

She added: "If you witness an incident, or want to make a report, please contact police as soon as possible."

To report an incident contact 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or in an emergency 999.