A SERIAL thief broke into a string of cars that formed part of a vandalism rampage in Farnworth and Kearsley.

John Greenwood, of St Peter's Terrace, Farnworth, broke into vehicles around his home town, particularly those parked in Long Causeway, and took items from inside.

His spree took place on February 17 and contributed to a total of 47 car windows being destroyed in separate spells in Kearsley and Farnworth in the same week.

At the time GMP's Bolton South Integrated Neighbourhood Team said a total of 30 vehicles were targeted in just one night in and around Station Road in Kearsley, which was described as "an act of mindless vandalism", and a further 17 cars were broken in to around Phoenix Street and Castle Mews in Farnworth.

Greenwood appeared at Bolton Magistrates' Court on Monday over the offences.

The 29-year-old took satellite navigation systems worth £300 and £100, tools worth £40, a car stereo worth £135 and various items costing a combined £300, all belonging to different victims.

He separately stole various items worth a combined £86 between February 14 and 15.

Greenwood admitted committing an offence of handling £600 worth of stolen goods the day after the spree.

He had in his possession a Greater Manchester Police-issue torch, seven grates belonging to Bolton Council and a satellite navigation device.

The defendant also admitted stealing confectionary to the value of £73 from a BP garage on February 6.

Greenwood was given a 12-month community order for which he must carry out 40 hours of unpaid work and up to 10 days' rehabilitation activities.

He has to pay compensation of £150 for the confectionary crime, court costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £60.

Inspector Michael Reid, of Kearsley team, said afterwards: "Two youths also received conditional cautions for 18 crimes following multiple damage to motor vehicles.

"They are working with the Youth Offending Team team at the moment and victims have been involved through the restorative justice process."