ASTLEY Bridge residents have complained about 'souped-up' cars racing around in the early hours of the morning.

A number of cars in the area have been modified to 'backfire' from the engine causing a loud, shotgun-like noise when they accelerate.

People living nearby have reported that they have been woken up at around 3am in the morning, as they race up and down Belmont Road.

One resident of adjoining road Shoreswood, described it as "like something out of The Fast and the Furious".

He said: "You get idiots racing around all the time.

"It's only a matter of time before somebody's killed.

"It's always stupid o'clock in the morning as well and it's like, have you not got a job to go to?

"I've been in touch with the police and they just keep telling me they'll pass it on to our local PCSO but nothing ever gets done."

There have also been complaints of laughing gas cannisters, snap bags and empty beer cans left on the Scout Road car park.

Councillor for Astley Bridge ward Hilary Fairclough said the issues are something she is aware of.

She said: "It's an ongoing complaint by lots of residents and they are right. Unfortunately we just can't get Highways or the police to take it seriously."

Cabinet member for Highways and Transport at Bolton Council, Councillor David Chadwick said: "I'd love to do something for the residents up there but we have very limited options to stop people driving like nutcases. Unfortunately, it's a police issue."

Greater Manchester Police have been approached for comment.