GANGS of thugs have gone on a wrecking spree in Halliwell.

During the last two weekends, groups of up to 20 teenagers have congregated outside the off-licences and mini-markets in Halliwell Road.

Shopkeepers say the yobs have smashed up four cars which were parked in side streets near to the shops.

They claim the youths are scaring their customers away because of their sheer numbers and have urged the police to take action.

Although the teenagers are not being verbally abusive, they are pestering people to buy them alcohol.

Shopkeepers say they are concerned that the problems they suffered with youths three years ago have returned.

Two girls and two boys were among a gang who carried out a "deliberate and sustained reign of terror in the area over a 12 month period.

They congregated outside the shops on a nightly basis, often drinking, swearing and armed with offensive weapons, which included chair legs and baseball bats.

The thugs verbally abused members of the public, threw bottles at passing cars, stole from the shops and smashed windows. In September 2004, the four youths were made subject to Anti Social Behaviour Orders which banned them from large parts of Halliwell, bringing an end to the shopkeepers' nightmare.

One shopkeeper, who does not want to be named for fear of reprisals, said: "I can't believe it is starting again. It has been peaceful for the last year or so after the previous problems.

"I don't think these kids are from Halliwell. I don't recognise any of them.

"Such a large group is intimidating to my customers. They are pulling up outside and then driving off when they see how many there are.

"They have tried to buy alcohol and when I have refused, they stand outside asking my customers. I daren't go outside because there are so many of them and I am concerned what they would do.

Another shopkeeper said: "We don't want the same thing to happen. Three years ago, our lives were made hell and I can't believe it could happen again.

Shopkeepers claim they have called the police but the youths have gone by the time they arrive and on some occasions, no one has even turned up.

Insp Tony Kenyon, from Greater Manchester Police in Bolton, said: "Dealing with anti social behaviour is a priority for the police because we are aware of the misery that such behaviour can cause.

"We are working closely with Bolton Council to tackle anti-social behaviour and a number of initiatives are taking place in the next few weeks involving high profile policing and covert operations.

"In terms of these latest incidents, they are being investigated and evidence is being gathered."

Anyone with information is asked to call Bolton Police on 0161 856 5761.