YOUTHS stole a double decker bus before careering through the streets of Bolton and smashing into parked cars.

A gang of teenage girls are thought to have taken the bus from Moor Lane Bus Station in the town centre after it was left with keys in the ignititon before they set off on a journey which saw them hit rows of parked cars. The First Manchester bus caused thousands of pounds worth of damage as it clipped door and wing mirrors during the 20 minute rampage. Four motorists later reported damage to the police but it is thought that more cars may have been hit as the gang tried to guide the bus up Derby Street and Bridgeman Street in Daubhill. Six teenage girls, aged between 14 and 16, were later seen fleeing after they abandoned the bus in Settle Street at about 8.30pm on Friday night.

The girls have been described as white and between 14 and 16 years old. One was wearing a mini skirt.

No injuries were reported.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 872 5050.