Vandals cause damage in Wem

Vandals who went on a "wanton" wrecking spree in Wem were today being hunted by police after leaving a trail of destruction behind them.

A museum, a sports club and a business close to the town centre were all targeted in the attack.

Police are linking the three incidents, which happened between Tuesday night and yesterday morning.

Officers said they are treating the attacks as criminal damage amounting to between £500 and £1,000.

Damage was caused to a parked van, a building and to fencing at locations in or near the town's business park.

Police are scouring CCTV footage and have appealed for information.

Constable Diane Langford said: "The front windscreen of a Ford Transit van was smashed by bricks at Welch and Phillips in New Street close to Wem Business Park.

"Two windows were also smashed and a cast iron drainpipe damaged at The Old Library in Aston Street and six fence panels at Wem Bowling Club in Bowen's Field have been smashed.

"This is wanton criminality at three locations within a short distance of each other."

She added that a lump hammer possibly used to cause the damage at the old library was found nearby."

Councillor Edward Towers, Mayor of Wem, said: "It's totally unacceptable and we need a zero tolerance approach to this type of crime."

Anyone with information can contact Wem police station on 03003 333000.

By Tom Johannsen