A businessman has called for extra help for police to clamp down on vandalism in Clacton town centre.

Ron Talbot, a partner at Lighthouse Properties estates agent in Pier Avenue, said his premises had come under attack twice in the past month.

There had also been several break-ins at the offices - two of which he had not even bothered to report.

Mr Talbot, who is also district commissioner for Scouts in Tendring, said he was getting bitterly disheartened at the behaviour of some youngsters in the town.

"These spates of vandalism always seem to happen when they've been out and had a few drinks and got tanked up," he said.

"Drugs are now rife in Clacton and there is more vandalism than ever."

Mr Talbot said he in no way blamed the police who he felt did an excellent job - but were simply understaffed.

"It is about time someone spoke up for the police who are having to run along behind the crime," he added.

"They do not have the resources to cope with this and they need help."

Mr Talbot said an air gun pellet was put through the window of his office at the end of January. The plate glass window will cost about £600 to replace. On the same night, two other shops had similar damage.

Last Tuesday, a plate glass door at Lighthouse Properties was kicked in.

The previous week there were two break-ins above the premises and another last Friday.

"I want to carry on in business in this town - I have lived here all my life. But I have always said that when it comes to the stage where you have to put shutters up to protect the property, it is time to give up. We might as well be in Beirut."

Mr Talbot said he had already installed five locks on his door but the vandals just kicked in the glass.

"The police's reaction to these incidents has always been positive and quick but they can only do so much."

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.