AN industrial unit containing an estimated £40,000 worth of remote control cars went up in flames after a bungled raid.

Thieves attempted to ramraid the lock-up in Tonge Bridge Industrial Estate, Tonge Bridge Way, at 8pm on Wednesday.

When they failed to get in, it is believed they used an axle grinder to try to cut their way in.

But when sparks from the cutters started a fire, the raiders fled, leaving the property to go up in flames.

Business owner Peter Edern, aged 31, of Heaton, believes his stock was specifically targeted.

He said: “I am mortified by what has happened.

“We had some stuff stolen from the van last week and presumably they have seen what was there and tried to get some more.

“If anyone knows anything then please contact the police.”

The unit was gutted by the fire.

Mr Edern had a mix of electric and fuel-powered remote control cars.

The cars sell for between £120 and £290 and approximately 150 boxes were destroyed in the blaze.

Although Mr Edern is partially insured, he said he would essentially have to rebuild his business from scratch.

He added: “With Christmas coming up it was due to be my busiest time of the year.

“I will do my best to get new stock and service the customers that have stuck by us in the past.”

Firefighters were called at 8.30pm and were at the scene for two hours.

Karsten Boyle, watch manager at Bolton Central fire station, said: “An investigating into what caused the fire is under way, but it is thought that there was an attempted burglary at the unit, and sparks from cutting equipment they were using to get in could have ignited the stock.”

Police are investigating the raid.

A white van was seen in the areas shortly before the raid.

Anyone with information should call 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555.