VANDALS went on the rampage - smashing up 10 cars with hammers.

The yobs targeted Sharples Avenue and Sweetloves Lane, Sharples, and areas of Oldhams Estate, including Selkirk Road, in the early hours of Saturday.

Damage included smashed car windows, wing mirrors being kicked off and two fence panels damaged.

Nikita Whamond, aged 29, of Selkirk Road, said: "Everybody heard what was happening but didn't want to say anything.

“I had been at the hospital and was in a taxi when I saw three men, who looked like they were in their early 20s, with a hammer.

“As the taxi pulled up they ran off. Fortunately my family's car wasn't damaged but one of the cars damaged on the road belongs to an old man.

“It was really quiet here six months ago but it's not now. There's always people hanging around."

William Gallagher, aged 44, from the Oldhams Estate, said: “I am concerned about this sort of behaviour, not just for my own vehicle, as people should be able to live in peace and harmony.

“I find people don't want to answer their doors or speak to police because they are scared of being accused of grassing people up.” Police have arrested two men aged 19 and 23 on suspicion of damaging a motor vehicle.

The older man has also been arrested on suspicion of possessing a class B drug. Both men have been bailed pending inquiries.

Det Insp Charlotte Cadden, from a Bolton North Integrated Policing Team, said: “This was mindless vandalism and many residents have been affected and left out of pocket.

“I am confident people will have witnessed the crimes so I would urge anyone who has any information that may assist us, to come forward.”

Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111.