A mosque in Bolton has been sprayed with racist graffiti.

According to sources the attack happened at Masjid-e-Usman which is based Astley Street in the town.

Mosques walls were daubed with the words: 'Islam= Evil' and a car was also spray painted.

Other mosques are being warned to be extra vigilant.

Police confirmed that shortly after 9.15am they were called to Blackburn Road, Bolton, following reports racist graffiti had been daubed on a mosque and a nearby car.

An investigation has been launched and the offending graffiti is in the process of being removed.

Officers in Bolton will also be working very closely with community leaders and local mosques to offer reassurance over the coming days.

Superintendent Steve Nibloe said: "Any acts of criminality which are motivated by religious hostility or racism are totally abhorrent and we take action against anyone found to be committing such offences.

"We have launched an investigation and we will do whatever we can to find those responsible and bring them to justice.

"Neighbourhood officers will continue to work very closely with local mosques and partners over the coming days and weeks both to offer reassurance and advice on taking the appropriate safety measures.

"What I would also like to stress is that the offenders responsible for this graffiti almost certainly live in this community and I'm sure people will be rightly appalled by this sort of behaviour. I would urge anyone who knows who is responsible to do the right thing and come forward."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or the Confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.