Thugs are damaging cars – tearing off windscreens and throwing paint at vehicles.

Motorists are being warned about mindless damage being caused to cars and vans in the Gaisford and Tarring areas of Worthing.

Sussex Police have received an increased number of reports from residents in the Queen Street, South Farm Road, Pavilion Road, Eastcourt Road, West Court Road, Beckett Road, St Dunstan’s Road and Church Road over the past few months.

PCSO Cathy Dines said: "Please ensure when leaving your vehicle, it is locked and any alarms are set.

"If possible, please try and park it in a well lit area as this damage is being caused once it becomes dark.

"Vehicle crime has been identified as a priority for the Gaisford Neighbourhood Panel and we will be carrying out a number of activities to curb the incidents.”