MORE than £10,000-worth of damage has been caused at a city estate agent's after paint was sprayed through its letter box.

Between 2am and 8am yesterday morning, Hardings in Milford Street was targeted by the offender.

Wiltshire Police says that they pointed a spray gun through the letter box and sprayed the interior of the premises in red paint.

Damage in excess of £10,000 was caused to walls, flooring, ceiling, desks, computers and lighting.

Officers are now searching for the culprit, citing the crime as a burglary – which is defined as the illegal entry of a building with intent to commit a crime.

PC Susan Malkinson said: “Although classed as a burglary, the offender didn't actually gain entry to the premises."

She added: "This is completely mindless vandalism which is going to be costly to repair.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area between the hours of 2am and 8am who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously, or any local businesses who may have CCTV which could help our enquiries.

“As well as this, we’d appeal to anyone who was driving nearby who may have dash cam footage which could have captured the offender or offenders.”

Call 101 and quote crime reference number 54190102958.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.