A woman suffered a cut to her hand and two cars were damaged in the latest in a series of attacks on vehicles on the A414.

Stones were thrown at moving vehicles yesterday on the A414 North Orbital Road, and the incidents are being linked by police to 23 similar acts of vandalism on that stretch of road over the past two months.

A silver Vauxhall van was hit by a stone between 4.10pm and 4.11pm yesterday, hitting the nearside window of the vehicle.

Later in the evening, between 7.20pm and 7.25pm, a stone smashed through the front passenger window and hit the interior of the front drivers’ window, causing it to smash. The driver was injured by the broken glass.

St Albans Chief Inspector Shane O’Neill said: “Thankfully the driver managed to maintain control of the car, pull over and contact police but this could have been much more serious.

“The driver was very shaken by the incident and the shattered glass caused a cut to her hand. Throwing stones at moving vehicles is extremely dangerous and could have serious or even fatal consequences.

“Extensive enquiries are being conducted to identify the offender(s) responsible for this reckless behaviour. We are also carrying out high visibility patrols in the location of these offences to help keep motorists safe.

“These latest incidents are being linked to a further 23 incidents, which have occurred between January 26 and February 22 in the same location.

“I would urge members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number 101. However, if you see a crime in progress always dial 999 so that we can dispatch officers to the scene as soon as possible.

“If you’d prefer to provide information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or submit details through their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”