A SHOP owner believes vandals may have targeted his window because of a book he is selling.

A panel of glass at John Shotton's antiquarian bookshop in Elvet Bridge, Durham City, was smashed by two men early yesterday.

Behind the broken glass is a display of Cobblers to the Council, the book by shoe repairer Tony Martin that went on sale on Friday.

Mr Martin, who said he had endured threats of violence because of his one-man campaign, closed his own shop in Claypath, last weekend after running up large rent arrears.

Mr Shotton said: "I think it might have something to do with the book.

"We have had eight or nine similar incidents in the last 20 years but only one inside the last few years after the security camera was installed about 30 yards from the shop.

"It is a coincidence that this has happened within 48 hours of the book going on sale."

Mr Shotton, who lives above the shop, said he heard a bang and looked out of his window shortly after 1am and saw two men leaving in different directions.

Mr Shotton, who said nothing was stolen, plans to keep watch on the shop at night this week in case vandals strike again.

But he said he had no intention of withdrawing the book from sale.

"I don't know how many windows would have to be put out before I think enough is enough."

Police are investigating the incident.