Colchester care worker's car is vandalised by crooks

James Chambers’ Mazda MX5, which he describes as his “pride and joy”, was keyed in several places and had its mirrors stolen on Tuesday evening.

And the following evening a car belonging to the 24-year-old’s girlfriend, Leanne, was also targeted by mindless criminals.

An Essex Police spokeswoman says its inquiries are ongoing and no arrests have been made at this stage.

Pride and joy - the car

Mr Chambers, who has spent more than £1,000 in upkeep on his vehicle, says the incidents have left him having to hide it in a different location out of fear it may be targeted again.

“It’s made me feel like I’m not safe in my area,” said Mr Chambers, who lives in the Highwoods area of Colchester.

“It feels like I’m being watched and targeted and has made me anxious to the point I am going to invest in cameras for my front door and garage as the police can’t help without any evidence.

Keyed - damage was sustained on the rear and side panels of the car

“I’ve lived in Highwoods for 17 years and never before have I seen something like this.”

The care worker spotted the glass on his wing mirror was stolen, as well as the Mazda badge and the side and back panel of the car were keyed, after a dog walk with his partner at 3.30pm.

Nails had also been left underneath the vehicle in an attempt to puncture its tyres.

Stolen - a mirror was pinched

“My partner feels bad for me because she jokes that I treat the car the same way as I treat her, that it’s the love of my dreams,” added Mr Chambers.

“It’s my pride and joy, I treasure it and shouldn’t have to hide it away. I bought it for myself after a lot of hard work, I thought why not get myself a treat.

“I take it to car shows to show it off and have spent hundreds, if not more than £1,000, to keep it in immaculate condition. All of a sudden someone has done this to me.”