THE search is on for a group of youths after two acts of 'mindless vandalism' in Mickleton.

The incidents, where £500-worth of damage was caused to one car alone, have also prompted

an appeal to parents to ensure they know where their teenagers are at night.

PC Bill White, who patrols Willersey, Mickleton and Chipping Campden said that, last Sunday,

a woman from Badsey Road reported that her new Mini had been severely scratched.

Police also heard from a man in the village saying his car had suffered similar damage.

Shortly before the incidents, a group of young eople had been reported acting suspiciously nearby.

PC White said he wanted to speak to the youths, if only to eliminate them from the enquiry. "There was a suspicious incident in Willow Close when some youths were seen hiding in an alleyway," he said.

"A householder challenged them and they ran off towards Badsey Road. "We believe that the damage to the Mini was caused after this event." He was particularly keen to identify one youngster aged between 15-16, and dressed all in white.

"This young man was seen at Willow Close and I hope he steps forward to help us in our enquiries," he said, before appealing to parents to keep a closer eye on their children.

"I hope I can stir parents into action to check where their young teenagers are at night," he said.

The damage to the Mini has been estimated at about £500. "It is nothing but mindless vandalism - the actions of bored youths," said PC White.