A FAKE owl has been put on an office roof to deter a pesky bird which has vandalised more than a dozen cars.

Around 20 members of staff at Greenfields Community Housing’s HQ in Charter Way, Braintree, have had rubber wiper blades ripped away from their cars by a troublesome crow.

It is estimated the blades cost £36 each to repair.

The crow – nicknamed George by staff – first began his assault on windscreen wipers in November and is also thought to have attacked cars parked at nearby Braintree Village.

Staff now cover wipers with blankets in a bid to hide them from eagle-eyed George.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

But with the problem showing no sign of relenting, Greenfields has had to install two fake owls on the roof and fitted a hawk-shaped kite, dubbed Chesney Hawk, in the car park to deter George.

The housing group has issued a desperate appeal to the public to come up with a long-term solution which will stop staff cars from being attacked.

Mandy Rose, one of George’s victims, said: “At the moment, we’re just ‘winging it’ with all these attempts at solutions, and I’m hoping for some suggestions of something more substantial that we could do.”

“We welcome any ideas to deter George from committing anti-social behaviour whilst remaining comfortable in his home.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call Greenfields on 01376 535400 or email csc@greenfieldsch.org.uk.