A YOUNG couple renting a house in Bolton is accused of systematically destroying the privately-owned property before walking away without having to face the consequences.

Now, the house owner is calling on the State to start making youths take responsibility for their actions.

Mrs Sue King bought the house on Lawn Street in Brownlow Fold, two years ago and says she was horrified to discover the extent of the damage caused by her latest tenants.

The couple, a woman aged 20, and a man aged 21, rented the house, through the DSS, back in February.

Since that time, she claims walls and furniture have been daubed with graffiti, curtains have been burned and cigarette ends strewn all over the carpet.

Despite DIY decorating being strictly forbidden, she says doors have been badly painted in different colours, and paint has been left speckled across the carpet.

Pieces of furniture - including a table, chairs and a fridge - are missing, while others have been vandalised.

Mrs King estimates the damage to come to almost £3,000.

She said: "The last time I rented the house out through the DSS, a 17 and 18-year-old turned up.

"Gangs of lads used to be at the house and it turned out they were dealing in guns and drugs. After a police raid, they ran off.

"Now, this latest couple have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage. Both have gone back to live with their respective mothers and are denying ever causing the damage, but it is there for all to see.

"These kids are totally irresponsible. They do not pay for the accommodation, so feel no responsibility for it. They live in it free of charge, damage it and then walk away, leaving someone else with the consequences of their actions. They then walk into another property and the cycle starts again.

"Their mothers just roll their eyes back as though unable to do anything.

"I have reported them to the police but whatever the outcome, they are unlikely to be punished properly.

"Time and time again, it is the State that carries the burden of these youths and it is so wrong."

Mrs King has now put the property in the hands of an estate agent and is yet to decide whether to rent it out again, or sell it.

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