POLICE are hunting a radical environmental activist after a series of attacks on gas-guzzling 4x4 vehicles.

Each of the vehicles, also known as Chelsea Tractors, either had their tyres slashed or let down.

And on every vehicle, all damaged in areas of south Manchester, a note was left saying they had been targeted because 'they contribute to climate change'.

Owners of such cars have been branded irresponsible by environmentalists, for their vehicle's size and fuel consumption.

Critics say the large four-wheel drive vehicles were originally intended for use by farmers on rough terrain in the countryside.

But they have become popular with middle-class families living in cities and are used for school runs and shopping trips.

Two separate attacks have now taken place in Manchester in less than a month.

Tyres on 20 cars were slashed or let down overnight in the Ladybarn and Withington areas of the city.

Overnight on Thursday April 23, the tyres on 11 cars were also slashed or let down in Ladybarn, Withington and Didsbury. All the areas are also popular with students.

On both occasions, notes left on all the cars were addressed 'Dear road user', and blamed the vehicles for climate change.

They went on to say such large vehicles were responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, intimidated other road users and pedestrians, and used oil which was the cause of wars.

They ended by saying the 'attack' was not on the owner, but on their choice of car.

Detective Inspector Damian Moran, from Greater Manchester Police, said: "Those responsible might believe they are making a point, but this behaviour is criminal.

"It is mindless vandalism with no regard for the distress and nuisance caused to decent members of our community and will not be tolerated.

"If anyone knows anything or has seen anything suspicious during those two nights that might help us catch those responsible, please contact me."