A home removal van containing a woman's 'whole life' was stolen from the streets of Oldham - but has since been returned to her.

On Thursday, a 3.5-tonne white Ford Luton van containing a woman's household belongings was stolen in Chadderton.

The son of the victim said it was "possibly the worst day of my life" as he had helped to pack up his mother's house to move her into her new home when the van was allegedly snatched.

"My 76-year-old mum has had her whole life stolen from her.

"It contains everything she owns. Her whole house and her whole life", the man wrote on social media.

However, thanks to the power of social media and GMP Oldham's neighbourhood team, the van was spotted and recovered the next day.

Abigail Cronin, Oldham's chief inspector for neighbourhood and partnership, said: "I was made aware of this incident last night via local media channels and my heart reached out to the family who had lost their belongings in this way."

Ms Cronin said officers on patrol found and recovered the stolen truck with seemingly everything still inside.

She added: “I am pleased to share the good news that the removal van has been recovered by the Waterhead and St James neighbourhood team.

"I would like to thank the community for coming forward and sharing vital information with us."

Celebrating the find, the son of the victim wrote: "I can't speak highly enough of the neighbourhood team.

"From the moment the vehicle was located due to an incredible response from Facebook, we contacted the neighbourhood team they acted quickly and kept us informed ensuring the vehicle could not be moved and my mum's entire belongings lost forever."

He added: "The most important irreplaceable items such as photos and sentimental ornaments collected over a lifetime are now safe."

Enquiries remain ongoing as officers are expanding their search to locate and arrest the suspect.

Information can be passed onto the neighbourhood team by calling 0161 856 5798 or via 101 quoting incident log 3243 of 02/03/2023.

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.