A SPATE of vandalism in Southminster has left a number of residents having to fork out hundreds of pounds to repair damage to cars.

Vehicles in High Street and Pantile Hill had their windows smashed by vandals in the late hours of Friday night.

The widespread vandalism has shocked some victims, who say they have not had anything like it happen to them before.

One victim said: “I’ve never had anything like this happen before, and I don’t think vandalism is a huge problem.

“The glass actually fell through and hit a sensor inside, so I needed not only the window replacing but also the door taken apart as it was saying the door was open so I couldn’t lock it.

“That cost £320 to fix the glass plus another £110 for the switch.”

A spokesman for Essex Police added: “We received reports that ten vehicles were damaged in Southminster between 1.15pm on Friday and 9am on Saturday.

“The vehicles suffered smashed windows and were parked in Queen Street, New Moor Crescent, Hillside Road and Pantile Hill.

“Officers are taking statements from a number of victims and witnesses and are carrying out house to house enquires.”

Anyone with information should call Chelmsford Police Station on 101, or report online at essex-police.uk/do-it-online.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.