VANDALS went on a major smashing spree in North Dorset, police said.

At least 17 incidents happened in Sherborne sometime between midnight and 3am yesterday.

Unknown offenders broke windows belonging to houses and shops and severely damaged cars, garden walls, fences and plant pots at various locations in the town .

Witnesses reported being woken by the sounds of banging and men shouting. Two men were seen, one was on a BMX bike.

PC Dermot Shanahan said: “The extent of these crimes is very concerning. It seems at least two men have passed through the town leaving a senseless trail of damage in their wake.”

Police are appealing for witnesses.