POLICE are encouraging greater public engagement after a sudden crime spree in Olveston.

Officers have this week met with residents from the village to talk about incidents of late night vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Last weekend, July 25 and 26 police were called to Olveston after a number of cars were damaged and windows were smashed.

However, since then cars have continued to be damaged over night with the letter H being scratched into the bodywork.

PC Roger Hopes, beat manager for the Severn, said: "A street briefing was held on Tuesday night where residents were able to express their concerns directly to myself.

"As well as additional targeted police patrols suggestions were also made about facilities for young people in the village and the possibility of temporary CCTV which is being pursued.

"This is a sudden crime spree for what is normally a quiet rural village. I am concerned that this is the work of someone local an I’m encouraging anybody to contact the police directly."

Anyone with information should call Avon and Somerset Police on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A beat surgery is also to be held tomorrow, Thursday, August 6 (10.30am-12pm) at the Olveston Stores coffee shop, where residents can speak with members of the Neighbourhood Police Team.