AN entire fleet of vehicles was targeted in a "horrendous" act of vandalism.

Thousands of pounds worth of damage has been caused to a dozen of Bury Council's vans and minibuses.

Vandals smashed the windows and doors of nine large transport buses, a minibus, a cabin and crew vehicle, and a HIAB truck loader, which were parked at the council's Bradley Fold depot.

The on-site portable storage cabin was also hit by anti-social behaviour.

One of the vehicles is known to be used by Bury social care provider Persona.

The vandalism has been reported to Greater Manchester Police.

A council spokesman said: "Twelve council vehicles have been extensively damaged by intruders who broke into Bury Council’s depot at Bradley Fold on Sunday night.

"The majority of the vehicles were buses which are used to transport elderly residents to day care centres.

"We will be working with the day centres and adult care services to contact clients who may be affected by this, and trying to secure alternative transport. We apologise for any inconvenience and are trying to resolve the situation.

"We would urge anyone who has information about this incident to contact the police immediately."

It is understood the vandals had forced their way into the Bury Council Transport Maintenance site through the perimeter fencing.

CCTV is being examined as part of the investigation.

A police spokeswoman said: "The incident occurred between 7pm on February 8 and 7pm on February 10.

"Around 10 minibuses were damaged which included windows smashed and doors being damaged. Two other council vehicles were damaged, as well as a porta cabin.

"An estimated £20,000 worth of damage was caused.

"Forensics have been to take evidence and our enquiries are ongoing."

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting incident number 2422 of February 10.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.