EMPTY council houses on what was said to be one of Bolton’s “hard to let” estates had become the latest target for mindless vandals back in February 1984.

Homes on the Top o’th’ Brow — which were already unpopular with tenants — had taken on a desolate appearance as more and more windows were boarded up or smashed.

Other houses in the New Lane and Glaister Lane areas of Breightmet had suffered smashed windows and lots of graffiti on the walls.

Mr Peter Gee, who was Bolton Council’s assistant director of housing at the time, told the Evening News: “There has definitely been an increase in vandalism recently."

However, more than 30 years later, the area his thriving, with a definite community feel to it.

Do you have memories of the Top o’th’ Brow estate you can share with other Looking Back readers for a feature in a forthcoming issue?

If so, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk to share your memories.