Boy, 15, warned of jail time over role in riot

The boy took the hat from an officer during the riot in Bolton

A 15-year-old boy who stole a police officer's hat and threw a glass bottle during a riot has been warned he could be jailed.

The teenager, from the Bolton area, admitted to violent disorder and the theft of the hat - valued at £30 - as he appeared at Manchester Youth Court accompanied by his parents.

The court heard he was one of those taking part in "large scale disorder" in Bolton town centre on 4 August.

District Judge, Jane Hamilton told the boy, who cannot be identified due to his change, that the matter was "very serious" and adjourned his sentencing to 1 October.

'Large-scale disturbance'

The court heard he threw a glass bottle at officers and was part of a mob who surrounded one police officer, whose hat was then stolen.

The incident came as trouble flared in towns and cities across the UK following the deaths of three children in the Southport stabbing attack.

Judge Hamilton told the boy, who has no previous convictions, that the court only had the power to impose two sentences, either a referral order or time in custody.

She adjourned sentencing for the preparation of a pre-sentence report and bailed the boy, warning him: "Obviously this was a large-scale disturbance, that means the court must look at whether you should go to custody.

"I'm not saying you will, but it must look at that option.

"I know this is all very new to you, but it is very serious."