VANDALS have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a health centre.

They threw rocks at Little Lever Health Centre in Mytham Road smashing 10 double-glazed windows and a set of automated doors.

The repair bill could cost up to £7,000.

The centre was targeted late on New Year's Eve. It is the latest in a series of attacks on medical centres in Bolton.

Bosses at Bolton Primary Care Trust (PCT), who are responsible for the running of surgeries, are now working to improve security at the Little Lever site.

Anna Basford, Director of Primary Care Development at the PCT, said: "Unfortunately, this is not a rare occurrence.

"There is a recurring problem at a number of centres and Little Lever is among those that have been targeted before.

"We will be introducing new security fencing to help protect staff and visitors."

Wire grills inside the window frames prevented the vandals accessing the building.

The PCT is hopeful that workmen will be able to repair the damage speedily to avoid any disruption to patients visiting the centre.

Dr Basford said: "We have a procedure in place to ensure the building is rapidly boarded-up and windows are reglazed.

"We want to minimise disruption to the community for whom the centre is very important."

Police are investigating the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bolton CID on 0161 856 5751. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.