TEENAGERS were among seven people arrested after 40 vehicles were damaged in just three hours in the New Forest on Sunday.

Police were alerted to several reports of criminal damage to cars in Grateley, Nether Wallop, Timsbury, Furzley, Bramshaw, Brook, Poulner and Picket Post.

All of the vehicles are believed to have been damaged between 3.40pm and 6.40pm.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary worked with colleagues from Dorset Police and the National Police Air Service to arrest seven people on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage.

It was reported that the group were travelling around in a green people-carrier firing catapults at parked cars. 

Detective Inspector Amanda Horsburgh has said: “There are a significant number of enquiries to be conducted due to the sheer volume of cars damaged. So far we have established in excess of 40 offences. 

“We are urging anyone who saw any of these incidents occurring to get in contact with us.

"Perhaps you saw a group in a green people carrier in these areas at around this time?

"Or maybe your car was damaged and you haven’t reported it yet?

"We would really like to hear from you. Please get in contact via 101 quoting 44150344762.” 

Among the persons arrested were four boys aged between 13 and 16 and three men aged between 19 and 39.  

All seven have been released on bail this afternoon until January 11 2016 pending further enquiries.