MORE police officers are being drafted into villages around Stockbridge following a night of destruction -resulting in 20 cars being damaged.

Yobs struck at Broughton, Houghton and neighbouring Bossington during Monday night leaving motorists with repair bills estimated to run into thousands of pounds.

Car windows were smashed, wing mirrors snapped off and windscreens scratched in the attacks.

Police say some residents heard unusual noises about 10pm and awoke the next morning to find a trail of damage.

Stockbridge's police chief is in charge of the investigation to track down those responsible.

Sergeant Glenn Curtis said: "This sort of behaviour is totally unacceptable and completely senseless. There appears too absolutely no motive behind this and is nothing more than a mindless act by whoever is responsible.

"We appeal to any resident to contact us if they have any information at all that could assist with the investigation. If they heard noises or saw someone acting or looking suspicious, we would urge them to get in touch."

Sgt Curtis added that he would not tolerate bad behaviour and would be deploying additional police resources throughout the rural villages affected in a bid to stop a repeat of the vandalism.

Police believe motorists driving through the affected villages may have spotted suspicious activity and are urging them to come forward.

Anyone with information about the attacks is asked to ring the police on 0845-045-4545.