TWO armed gangs of youths smashed up cars and threatened residents when they clashed in a Darwen street.

Police were drafted in from Longridge and Accrington to help deal with the incident in Windsor Road.

Youths with iron bars, golf clubs and sticks began causing trouble at around 9.30pm on Saturday, police confirmed.

Several vehicles were damaged and windscreens were smashed as the they ran up and down the road, police confirmed.

Resident William Morris, 69, said residents were left in fear.

He said: "We haven't got a clue why this happened.

"It just seems to be an act of mindless vandalism and destruction.

"The windscreen on my car was smashed and will cost me at least £300 to replace it.

"This is absolutely ridiculous and whoever has done this should be locked up for it."

Another Windsor Road resident, Paul Sharrock, said: "Over 20 youths were involved and at least two cars had their windows smashed.

"We can only hope this is an isolated incident."

Police were today unable to confirm whether they had arrested anyone in relation to the incident.