A GANG of yobs smashed a woman’s car window with a hammer while she was caring for an elderly patient.

Tanya Stevens had left her car in Ash Road, Canvey, whilst visiting one of her elderly clients, when a gang of five yobs smashed the windscreen of her Peugeot 307.

She has since had to have time out of work to get the damaged fixed.

She believes the group was made up of youths aged between 13 and 15-years-old.

The 43-year-old, from Canvey, said: “I’ve been a carer for ten years now and I’ve never had anything like this happen before.

"I didn’t even realise the damage until I was actually in the car and looked up to see the screen was completely hammered in.

"You can see they used a hammer because of the marks in the screen are circular and prominent, so it must’ve been hit with some force.

“I’m still in absolute shock; the bus stop window on Dovervelt Road was also smashed.”

She added: “It’s quite worrying there are kids walking around with hammers which they could use as a weapon, whether that’s to hurt someone else or each other.

“We’re still trying to work out cost, but I’d imagine it won’t be cheap to repair the entire screen and have all the glass removed from the inside of the car. I’ve even had to miss time off work. I love my job and helping people, so to have this happen is just devastating. It might be a bit of fun to them but look what impact it has.”

Essex Police have confirmed an investigation has been launched and no arrests have been made as of yet.

The carer also revealed she has been in touch with one of the teen’s mums, who has offered to pay £50 towards her repairs.

She added: “I just want the four boys and girl who were involved to be held to account.

“I’ve lived on Canvey my whole life and these yobs running havoc has only gotten worse.”