POLICE have reassured residents in London Colney that there will be increased patrols in the area following a recent spate of vandalism in which a car was rolled on to its side and allotment sheds were trashed.

They are investigating the incidents where at least six sheds were tipped over, many damaged beyond repair, on London parish council owned allotments off Richardson Close between 6pm last Wednesday, October 26, and early Thursday morning, October 27. Also overnight on Sunday, October 23, the rear windscreen of a Peugeot 106 was smashed with a brick. A few days later, between 7.30pm and 8.45pm on October 26, the same vehicle was rolled on to its side, causing damage to the bodywork and paint.

A spokesman for the parish council said the allotments were used by about 20 people, many of whom shared the plots with their families.

He said some sheds had their doors ripped off and glass smashed.

The spokesman added: “Glass vegetable enclosures were also damaged and water butts were thrown and used to damage other structures. Empty beer and wine bottles were strewn about the area as well.

“Much of the damage has been repaired by our own groundsmen and the allotment holders themselves.”

Sergeant Andy Kirby said: “Officers are aware of the issues in relation to criminal damage and would like to reassure residents that we are monitoring the situation.

“We understand the impact these incidents can have on people and will increase patrols accordingly and are investigating the incidents that have been reported to us.”

Anyone with information on the incidents of criminal damage in London Colney can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.