THOUSANDS of pounds worth of damage has been caused to up to 30 cars in Prestwich in acts “mindless” vandalism.

Police say dozens of cars have been damaged, after two men were seen knocking off wing mirrors and jumping on their bonnets.

The vandals were seen jumping on a car on Lowther Road at about 6.30am yesterday, with police then receiving up to 30 further reports of criminal damage to cars on Scott Road, Prestwich Park Road, Masefield Avenue, Shelley Road and St Anns Road.

Police say one suspect has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon following the incidents.

It is believed that many more incidents took place, but have so far gone unreported or the owners of the cars have not yet realised.

Other cars targeted included a Peugeot 206, Vauxhall Corsa, Renault Clio and a Kia Sportage.

Detective Sergeant Benjamin Cottam, of Bury police, said: “What we are dealing with is mindless, wanton vandalism on a very large scale.

“This was not one or two cars that were scratched but at least 30 cars, probably more, that sustained considerable damage at the hands of these vandals.

”We have dedicated significant resources to catching those responsible. These individuals have caused a lot of upheaval and upset in this community and we will do everything we can to identify those involved.

”It is not just the financial hassle of paying for repairs that has upset the victims but the time it will take to rearrange work and home commitments to arrange for those repairs and sort out the mess caused by two wanton vandals.

”I would firstly appeal to anyone who has information about the vandalism to come forward.

”I would also urge anyone whose car has been damaged to report it to police.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.