Vandals light fire and cause damage after breaking into newly-built houses on Wigan estate

The two properties had just been completed on a Bellway Homes site on Wigan Road in Ashton, but their new owners had not yet moved in.

But people forced their way inside, caused damage to the kitchen units and other items, before setting painting materials alight in one of the houses.

A resident in a nearby property called the emergency services and three fire engines from Wigan and Hindley attended at 12.30am on Thursday.

There was fire damage and a lot of smoke damage to one of the houses, where the blaze had been lit.

Police are investigating the break-ins and anyone with information is asked to call them on 101.