A THIRD spate of vandal attacks on cars has taken the total number of vehicles daubed with paint in part of Darlington to 40 in ten days.

Eleven cars were damaged in the Hummersknott area in one overnight spree, followed by 19 more days later.

In the latest incident, ten cars were attacked, in Leith Road, Crammond Close, Edinburgh Drive and Hummersknott Avenue early yesterday.

Grey, green and beige paint was sprayed on to the vehicles.

Police, puzzled over the motive for the attacks, are stepping up patrols in the area.

Detective Sergeant Alec Francis, of Darlington police, said: "It's just mindless, unmotivated, wanton damage."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.