VANDALS caused thousands of pounds of damage to cars in a wrecking spree.

Five cars parked in North Street, Colne, were scratched with a key or other sharp instrument between 1.30am and 8.30am on Saturday.

Police said damage could run to thousands of pounds.

Sgt John Fryer, of Colne police, said: "The chances are that youths are responsible for this.

"They might have thought it was a bit of a laugh, but damaged paintwork costs a lot of money to put right."

He appealed for witnesses to contact police on 01282 425001.