A third man has been arrested after a pensioner was dragged into a car.

The incident is believed to have happened around 9pm on Sunday 15 September in the Lee Street area of the town.

Police said the 87-year-old victim was walking home when he was allegedly bundled into a black car and blindfolded, while demands were made for his money and personal items.

He was then believed to have been attacked and eventually pushed out of the car in the Rishworth area of West Yorkshire. The man eventually got help after knocking on a door at around 10.40pm.

A third man was in custody today awaiting questioning.

A 39-year was arrested on suspicion of kidnap on September 22 at an address in Blackpool. He remains in custody for questioning.

One man who was previously arrested as part of the investigation and has since been bailed.  Shohad Miah, 24 from Royton has been charged with kidnap, grievous bodily harm, robbery and intentional strangulation.

Detective Inspector Emma Hulston, said: “We have now arrested three men in connection with this shocking incident an
d we continue to make good progress with our enquiries.

“We understand the concern from local residents and those further afield across Greater Manchester after hearing of what happened to the elderly man, we do believe it was an isolated incident with no wider threat to the public.

"Specialist officers are supporting the victim whilst he recovers from this traumatic ordeal and we have an investigation team working hard behind the scenes to investigate fully and build a timeline of events leading up to this incident.

“We continue our appeal for information that may assist their enquiries and any information can be submitted through the major incident portal.

“Information can be provided through our MIPP Portal, or by contacting the investigation team on 0161 856 3635 quoting log number 3165/150924.

“The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”