VANDALS smashed up three beach huts in Friars Cliff in Christchurch on Friday night.

Police investigating the incident discovered wood ripped off the front of the huts.

Windows were also smashed on all three chalets situated between Avon Beach and Steamer Point on Saturday morning.

Two of the chalets had been ransacked, although it is not yet known whether anything was taken.

PC Chris Vaughan from Mudeford and West Highcliffe Safer Neighbourhood Team said crime scene investigators were examining the huts for footprints and fingerprints on Saturday.

The incident was reported to police around 11.30pm on Friday night.

PC Vaughan said efforts had been made to contact all of the owners, but said he understood two of them were not local.

He added: “We have been down at the site this morning and lots of people have been speaking to us.

“We did have a spate of break-ins about a year and a half ago but we believe those were by professional groups and this looks to be younger offenders.

“I would advise all beach hut owners to ensure they do not leave any valuables in their huts overnight and to check they are locked and secured properly.

“We would like to hear from anyone with any information about this incident.”

Police can be contacted in 01202 22 22 22.