A GROUP of yobs have damaged countless windows in cars and homes in Wickford and Billericay, by using a catapult.

Reports from residents and police state that the group, travelling in a van, used a catapult to destroy windows in both the vehicles and houses.

Halstead Gazette:

Sophie Lowe, whose car and house windows were smashed on Mill Road, Billericay, told the Echo that there had been ten others who had been affected on her road.

The 22-year-old, said: "It's a nightmare.

"We didn't discover it until this morning.

"Our neighbours heard it at around half ten last night.

"There's glass all over my child's car seat.

"Hopefully the insurance will fix it today.

"We've got CCTV but you can't see the culprits properly."

Halstead Gazette:

Chloe Talbot, the owner of the Mini, pictured, which was damaged in Crays Hill, stated that the whole situation is very sad and alarming. She added: "I’m the one that’s left cleaning it up and paying to get it fixed whilst missing a days pay at work.

"I’m going through my CCTV but can’t see anything yet."

A spokesperson from Essex Police, said that the force had received a number of calls last night. They said: "We received a number of calls that the windows of cars and houses in Billericay had been damaged between around 10.20pm and 10.50pm on Thursday 3 October.

Halstead Gazette:

"The incidents took place in the Beams Way, Mill Road and Crays Hill areas.

"The suspects were believed to be travelling in a van and using a catapult to cause the damage.

"Officers carried out a search of the area but the suspects were not found.

"Enquiries are ongoing."