A Romney Marsh councillor has called for more bobbies on the beat after a spate of criminal damage to cars in one night in Lydd.

Cllr Clive Goddard said prevention is better than cure when it comes to mindless acts of vandalism.

His comments come after a total of 12 car windscreens were damaged in New Street at around 10.30pm last Friday.

The councillor, who was re-elected last week to represent the Walland and Denge Marsh ward on the district council, said: "It's a no frills crime - it's a pointless crime causing criminal damage to people's property.

"Hopefully the police are taking this seriously and are going to look for suspects."

Following the reports, the councillor contacted the police himself to seek an update on the situation.

He added: "I've always encouraged and fought for more police. It's one of my main priorities."

Cllr Goddard believes that a presence makes residents feel safer.

He said: "Reassurance is good. They can talk to people and listen. It's a tough one - it's happening all over the county, but I'd like to see more in the town."

The vehicles, which were parked on a quiet and narrow residential street, are believed to have been smashed up in the space of one night.

A police spokesman said: "Inquiries to establish the full circumstances, which have included speaking with potential witnesses and searching for CCTV, are ongoing.

"As part of their inquiries, officers are keen to speak with anyone who believes they saw anything suspicious in the New Street or Eastern Road area between 10pm and 11pm."

A Folkestone and Hythe District Council spokeswoman added that the authority is also aware of the situation: "The council works in partnership with others including Kent Police via the Community Safety Unit.

"This issue has been discussed at our weekly meeting and we are already working on information gathering and reassuring residents."

Unconfirmed reports suggest other similar incidents also took place elsewhere in the town.

Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting the reference number 46/84890/19, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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