RESIDENTS are being urged to help reduce vandalism attacks on Bolton schools.

Police have reported an increase in reports of damage to school property during the summer holidays.

Residents living near schools have contacted officers complaining of smashed windows, children causing a nuisance and youngsters running along school building roofs.

Now the police have put out the call to both parents and children who may spot the vandals in the act to make a call to the police.

Chris Waters, Crime reduction officer from Astley Bridge operational police unit, said: "Apart from the nuisance factor, the dangers of these practices is obvious.

"Please report anything which may reduce the possibility of crime taking place at school. Let's also reduce the possibilty of serious injury by educating your children about the dangers."

His message comes just days after 19 windows were smashed at the Castle Hill complex -- including a school, training centre and youth centre -- off Castleton Street, Bolton.

In June, the BEN revealed that there had been 121 burglaries and vandalism attacks on schools in just six weeks. Computer and electriocal equipment was stolen in the 27 break-ins, contained in the statistics. Anyone who spots any vandalism is asked to contact Bolton Police on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers on the free phone 0800 555 111.