Police investigate spate of car crime

VANDALS embarked on a spree of car damage in one of Suffolk's most sought after villages.

Russell Claydon

VANDALS embarked on a spree of car damage in one of Suffolk's most sought after villages.

Police are linking eight crimes on vehicles within a three day period in Long Melford as they look to clamp down on vandalism and anti-social behaviour plaguing residents' lives.

The incidents, which all involved cars being scratched, all took place between Saturday and Monday.

In Church Walk, a grey Peugeot 407, a silver Porsche Turbo and a blue Porsche Boxster were all damaged from being parked on a driveway or on the street.

There was also similar damage inflicted on cars in Hall Street, to a black VW Polo, a green BMW, a grey Suzuki Vitara, a silver Mercedes and a blue MG sports car.

It comes after angry householders made their feelings known at a parish meeting last month about a group of teenagers running riot in the village. Car roofs have also been clambered over and plants pulled from people's gardens. At the meeting they demanded something more was done.

Linda Goodban, clerk of Long Melford Parish Council, has said they are investigating setting up a youth club for “bored” youngsters.

Responding to the heated aftermath of the village meeting, a Suffolk police spokeswoman said: “The West Babergh Safer Neighbourhood Team has taken concerns from residents regarding anti-social behaviour in parts of Long Melford including Hall Street to its monthly meeting with partners and it has been designated a current priority to work on.

“The SNT has a zero tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviour, and where appropriate officers will seek both civil and criminal remedies including Anti-Social Behaviour Contracts and Anti-Social Behaviour Orders.”

Anyone with information about any of the crimes listed is urged to call the West Babergh Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.