A SWIMMER is urging council bosses to boost security at leisure centres in the borough.

The 62-year-old accounts manager from Unsworth, who did not wish to be named, was one of three people who had items taken from their lockers as they swam at Radcliffe Pool.

Car keys, house keys and mobile phones were stolen and the thief even managed to take one of the swimmer's vehicles from the car park.

The man contacted the police from the baths in Green Street, and later had to have door locks changed at his home and on his car, at a cost of almost £500.

The thefts happened in March and the man has since been lobbying Bury Council to bring in greater security at leisure centres.

He said: "It has cost quite a lot to replace stolen items and have car locks changed but I also think it is important that people feel safe in places like this. Some positive action needs to be taken by the council.

"It was a quiet afternoon, at around 3.30pm, when the items were taken from the lockers. They were prised open and the thief even managed to steal one of the cars from the car park.

"I know there are issues with having CCTV in changing rooms but it would make the area a lot safer. We pay enough taxes for something to be done about the safety of property in these places. If it means having additional locks, so be it."

He added that the baths could also put up warning signs about thieves, so people would be aware.

A council spokesman said that security was being reviewed following the incident at Radcliffe Pool.

Since it happened, council chiefs have looked into the installation of CCTV at the centre.

He said: "The council takes security at its premises very seriously. Before this incident, and even more so now, staff are vigilant and patrol all areas of the centre regularly.

"However, by their nature these places are public and it is not possible to maintain a permanent presence within the changing areas.

"Immediately after the incident staff assisted customers and the police were called. If anyone has any information about the thefts we urge them to contact the police."