YOUTHS have gone on the rampage two nights running and left a trail of destruction across the centre of Culcheth.

In the worst incident, an industrial bin was dragged from Newchurch Parish Hall and left in the middle of Common Lane. Stone-throwing vandals targeted windows at Culcheth Provision Store and a betting shop under construction opposite. Smashed alcohol bottles and used condoms have been scattered across Culcheth common and part of the pathway has been ripped up.

And villagers were amazed on Wednesday morning to find that attempts had been made to construct a huge treehouse on the outskirts of Culcheth common.

Borough councillor Keith Bland condemned the attacks and said: "I just feel frustrated, after all the work we have done to try to improve the village. I feel really sick - it's just mindless."

He has called on the rampaging youths' parents to ensure that their children improve their behaviour.

Police have promised to step up patrols, according to Clr Bland, who has received countless complaints about the marauding youngsters.

Parish council maintenance staff have been working non-stop since Tuesday in a bid to clean up the mess.