POLICE are appealing for witnesses after “racing” cars smash into the front of houses in Bolton last night.

Just after 11.30pm two cars collided and then crashed into the front gardens of houses in St Helen’s Road.

A silver/grey Audi A4 crashed into the front of one house, sending bricks flying through the window of the neighbouring property.

A red Volkswagen Golf crashed into the garden of a house a few doors along the street.

The drivers and passengers ran off from the scene before police arrived.

Witnesses reported seeing the two cars “racing” each other and travelling at speed down Plodder Lane before they lost control and drove into the houses at the junction.

The all-male drivers and passengers then made off in different directions across nearby fields, however some of the men showed signs of injury.

Police are now appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

Inspector Mike Reid from GMP’s Bolton Division said: “It is so lucky that none of the occupants of the houses were injured in this shocking and reckless incident.

“We believe the cars were racing each other, down a road that people live on, where children play and where people walk their dogs at night.

“They have destroyed these poor people’s homes, I’m only thankful that nobody was killed.

“I am now hoping that the public can help me find those responsible so we can bring them to justice. We are appealing for anyone who may have seen the cars before, may have seen the men running away from the scene, or may have caught them on dashcam footage to get in touch with police.

“We believe some of the men could be injured so please let us know if you know anyone who may be acting suspiciously or trying to cover up an injury.

“I am determined to bring these men to justice. Can you imagine sitting on your sofa watching TV when a car comes through the window? It would be terrifying. All because people think it is a good idea to race their cars.”

Anyone with any information should contact police on 0161 856 5502, 101 or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.