Thugs broke into Jackie Waring’s Lunar Roadstar motorhome, which was parked near her home in Parker Street, and tore the engine apart.

It was the second incident in the street in less than a week.

Days earlier, Allan Presho’s home was hit by a motorist - who then made off.

The motorhome was damaged at some point on Wednesday night or Thursday morning, but nothing was stolen and no other vehicles in the street were believed to have been damaged.

Part of the bumper was torn off, the engine had been ripped apart, wiring damaged, interior lights broken, the dashboard smashed, and the steering column was also damaged.

Jackie, 56, said she believes it was wrecked during stormy weather on Wednesday.

She said: “People have told us they saw it on Wednesday night and it looked all right.

“A neighbour told us the bonnet was open, and when we went out to look, it had been extensively damaged.

“We haven’t got the exact figure yet but it will be running into the thousands.

“We don’t think it was children because it would take an adult to do that.

“There was a flat screen television in and other stuff worth hundreds, like a DVD, sat nav and microwave, inside but not taken so that in itself was really odd.

“My grandparents lived here, and my parents, and I’ve lived here all my life.

“I feel violated. I’m disheartened with Rishton and with society.

“I have been ill and just had a brain scan, and I’m waiting for the results back, and it’s nearly Christmas too.

“What do people gain from this?”

A police spokesman said: “Rishton Neighbourhood Policing Team is appealing for witnesses after extensive damage was caused to a motorhome whilst parked in a compound on Parker Street, Rishton.

“If you have any information please call 01254 353334. ”