CAR VANDALISM is escalating in the Stroud and Langrish areas, with the number of incidents in recent months now totalling 22.

Police officers investigating criminal damage on Winchester Road in Stroud, between August 25 and September 3, now believe a number of other incidents may be connected.

These have taken place along the A272 between Stroud and Hinton Ampner between June and August.

Langrish resident John Lyons reports vandalism there too, with ten cars targeted to date.

An appeal from police has gone up on the village noticeboard asking for witnesses to come forward.

“There is a huge problem around this, and your continued highlighting of the issue would be appreciated,” said John.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who has seen suspicious activity on the A272 Stroud to Hinton Ampner area.

Police believe stones or ballbearings fired with some sort of catapult were used to damage vehicles and the car showroom window at White Rose on Winchester Road, Stroud, on September 3.

Officers have been studying security camera tapes of the incidents.

Meanwhile, residents in the village have reported their car windows smashed.

Anyone who has seen any suspicious activity along the A272, in Stroud or Langrish, should contact Petersfield police on 101 or via the website at www.hampshire.police.uk/internet/do-it-online/online-forms/message-for-officer

The charity Crimestoppers line can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.