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

At least 17 incidents happened in Sherborne during the early hours of last Thursday.

Unknown offenders broke windows belonging to houses and shops and severely damaged cars, garden walls, fences and plant pots at various locations including Ridgeway, Springfield Crescent, Newland, Acreman Street, Horsecastles Lane, Greenhill , South Avenue, Lenthay Road, and South Court. Witnesses reported being woken by the sounds of banging and men shouting. Two men were seen, one was on a BMX bike. No further description is available.

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.

“The offenders have caused a lot of damage and an enormous amount of distress and expense to the victims.

“I am very keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious as soon as possible.”

Witnesses and anyone with information are asked to contact Dorset Police on 101.