A young vandal has been caught on CCTV smashing the windows of a town centre salon.

The teenager was filmed smashing the window of You & Co Hairdressing in Mortimer Street, Herne Bay.

He was captured walking along North Street towards the High Street just after the incident with three others, who are believed to be two girls and a boy.

Owner David Rusbridge says the repairs will cost “several thousand pounds”.

“He damaged the glass of the shop window as well as a window on the door,” said the 56-year-old.

“I think he used a sock filled with stones or coins – something that would smash it.

“It’s all boarded up now, but it will cost several thousand pounds to fix. People are remarking on it and I’ve just put signs outside to say it’s business as usual here.”

The vandal, who struck at about 9.10pm on Saturday, has dark hair and was wearing a black gilet, hoodie and a pair of jeans when he smashed the window.

Mr Rusbridge says the group returned to the salon sometime between 1.30am and 2.30am that night to photograph the damage.

“They’re just yobs,” he added. “It seems to be a bit malicious.

“I had a shop in Welling, south London, for 10 years, so I am used to this – but for this to happen in a nice seaside town is absolutely appalling.”

Police were called just before 11.30am on Sunday. Officers say enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances of the incident.

The experience has forced Mr Rusbridge to consider purchasing roller shutters, worth about £3,000, to protect his shop front.

He also believes that someone would have seen the group of teenagers on Saturday night.

“We’ve got them red-handed because of the CCTV,” he said.

“There must have been witnesses, but unfortunately nobody sees anything these days.”

Officers have urged anyone with information to contact them on 01843 222289, quoting the reference number 13-573, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.