A GROUP of youths have caused up to £30,000 worth of damage to cars by spraying them with expanding foam.

At least 10 cars were targeted by a gang over the weekend, in the Shrub End area of Colchester.

The cars are being vandalised at night, in Hazell Avenue, John Kent Avenue and Catherine Hunt Way.

Landlord Tony Kidger is offering a reward of £500 for information leading to the conviction of the offenders.

He said: "It's not just the foam on cars, it's windscreens being damaged and things being thrown at houses.

"It seems to be a group of 14 or 15-year-olds, they are using expanding foam which is used to fill holes.

"Once it's on anything it goes completely solid. It's just annoying as this has always been a really nice estate."

He said possible insurance claims could amount to about £30,000.

He added: "In the past two or three months there must have been, without exaggerating, about £50,000 worth of damage to cars, and no-one seems to be interested.

"There's loads going on in this area, there's about 10 of these teenagers going round on bikes and I'm sure it's going to be one of them."

Cars in Duncan Road and Rayner Road are also being scratched and windows have been smashed.

A white liquid, similar to milk, has also been thrown over cars and has left stains.

Residents said it was very disappointing to have seen a spate of "silliness".

Ward councillor Lyn Barton (Lib Dem) said it was more mindless vandalism, and is encouraging residents to report it.

She said: "I'm not happy, we are sure it's one group causing unnecessary distress to residents.

"I am encouraging all to report it to 101 in an effort to get resources diverted to Shrub End.

"It really needs highlighting as the damage to cars is becoming a regular occurrence. It's very worrying for residents as they feel helpless."

The incidents have been reported to police. Call 101 with any information.