VANDALS have caused thousands of pounds of damage to cars.

In the space of three nights, yobs smashed the windows of six cars in five streets in Sharples causing £2,000 worth of damage.

Meanwhile, police are also investigating after yobs tipped wood glue over two cars in nearby Astley Bridge on Wednesday.

Officers are keeping an open mind as to whether the incidents are linked and are now appealing for help in catching those responsible before they wreak more havoc on the quiet suburban streets.

The first attacks took place between January 23 and 25 when vandals smashed the windows of cars parked outside their owners' homes in Florence Avenue, Douglas Street, Kellett Street, Murton Terrace and Ollerton Street, Sharples.

Despite smashing windows, the yobs did not try to steal the cars, or anything left inside them.

PC Graham Neil, community beat manager for Astley Bridge and Sharples, said: "These acts of criminal damage are not only causing distress to residents but also a great deal of expense.

"I would appeal to anyone who has information, or any witnesses, to contact police."

Police were called to Ashworth Lane on Wednesday following reports cars had been vandalised by glue being thrown over them.

Christian Ogden, of Parkgate Drive, Astley Bridge, said: "I went to Asda to get some cigarettes and I could not believe it when I was driving back and I saw loads of people in Ashworth Lane washing their cars when it was approaching midnight.

"I asked what was going on and they said the cars had been covered in paint or glue. This sort of behaviour is not on."

Ian Taylor, of Florence Avenue in Sharples, said the problem is not a new one. He had his car vandalised last year when a gang jumped on the bonnet and roof.

He said: "I heard this almighty banging and when I got outside I saw all the dents on my car but the gang had run off.

"It was a gang of about a dozen 13 to 17-year-olds. I know it probably isn't safe but I'd always confront someone who is vandalising my car.

"I don't know what can be done to stop these gangs. They must be drinking so something needs to be done to reduce that."

Anyone with any information about the vandalism can call police on 0161 856 5761 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.