Published: February 19, 2009
Exclusive: Vandals attack five shops in centre of Burnham-On-Sea

Police are appealing for witnesses after five shops in the centre of Burnham-On-Sea had windows smashed in the early hours of Thursday (February 19th).

One shop, The Esplanade Fish Bar, had three windows smashed and a back door kicked in, as pictured here, as the vandals went on a wrecking spree.

Other shops targeted included Insane Games in Cross Street and the soon-to-open Link Internet Cafe, plus other businesses in Burnham High Street, where windows were again smashed.

Police spokesman Martin Dunscombe told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "I can confirm that a number of incidents occurred overnight and our enquiries are continuing."

"We would urge anyone who witnessed the attacks, or has information that would help police, to get in contact via Burnham police on 0845 4567000."

Glyn Linton, the owner of The Esplanade Fish Bar, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "These people are a disgrace to Burnham and I fully sympathise with all the businesses that have been affected."

"I had a phone call from a member of staff alerting me to the damage on Thursday morning and I could hardly believe that three windows and a door had been damaged."

The latest crime spree comes just weeks after Burnham-On-Sea.com was first to report that the town's Chamber of Trade had urged police to step up patrols in the town centre to combat vandalism against businesses.

Update: Police confirmed on Friday afternoon that a 17-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage. He has been released on police bail, pending further enquiries. Police also said on Friday that patrols in the area have been stepped up.

Neighbourhood team inspector Sam Williams said: "In response to the incidents we have stepped up patrols in the area, highlighting this as the priority area for night time patrols. We are also working closely with Sedgemoor CCTV to identify, monitor and highlight any potential offenders in the area."