VANDALS left their Christmas message of goodwill at a Westhoughton business -- stealing £4,000-worth of animated models and an illuminated Santa Claus.

The young tearaways smashed a window at Mark Forrest and Co, on Manchester Road, before grabbing the animal figures from the seasonal display.

They also tore down a Father Christmas sign which was placed on top of a box used by Westhoughton boys and girls to send letters to Santa Claus.

Kevin Forrest, the father of owner Mark, said: "This has made us very angry. It is an act of sheer vandalism. It's very, very sad, because we do this every year for the children."

Staff at the business, which deals with conservatories, sheds and garages and sells Christmas trees, were upset when they arrived at work on Tuesday morning.

The vandalism which had taken place sometime overnight had wrecked their festive decorations. Although the thieves got away with the models, they did not steal the machinery which animates the figures, including penguins, squirrels and seals, making them virtually useless.

All that was left from the snowy display was two deers.

The wooden letter box was set-up three years ago for children to send their wish lists to Santa. The company would then send replies to the boys and girls.

The box was empty the morning after the theft. It is not known if any children's letters were stolen.

The incident has been reported to the police and they are investigating.

Anyone who has information on the theft can call Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050.