A VIOLENT gang of up to 60 teenage vandals went on the rampage in a night

of disturbances in

Ramsbottom.

Police were called out twice on Friday night to the Bolton Road West area to deal with the yobs.

Missiles had been thrown causing damage to buildings and cars, with one youth needing treatment from para-medics for a cut above the eye after being struck in the face.

Zaidy's Pizza, Curry and Kebab House on Bolton Street a window smashed during the fracas.

Residents say the incidents are just the latest in ongoing problems of gangs of youths congregating in the street and causing disturbances.

Complaints have been made on a regular basis at public meetings. Police officers and an ambulance were first called to the street at around 9pm and returned just over an hour later.

Both times the youths fled as they heard the sirens approaching.

Insp Ian Tichner, of Bury Police, said: "There were a number of incid-ents involving youths in that area on that night.

"There were about 50 to 60 youths throwing bricks at cars and houses.

"The large group caused disturbances with several fighting.

"There were a few youngsters intent on causing problems."

He added: "They were going around the area and when we were getting close they were dis-appearing. The juveniles made off before the police even arrived.

"The gang's numbers dwindled as the night went on."

Residents say anti-social behaviour is a hot topic at area board meetings, which bring together police, local councillors, organisations and mem-bers of the public.

One resident, who did not wish to be named for fear of reprisals, said: "It's getting worse. Something needs to be done before someone is seriously injured or killed."