POLICE are stepping up their patrols after vandals sprayed 19 cars with paint in Darlington.

The attacks came days after 11 cars were similarly damaged in the Hummersknott area of the town.

Police are puzzled about the motive of the attacks, but are appealing for help to catch the people responsible.

Vehicles in Carol Road, Leith Road, Hummersknott Avenue and Pentland Grove were attacked between 8.30pm on Friday and 7am on Saturday.

A grey/green paint was sprayed on to the cars, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Police are stepping up patrols in the area to stop any further vandalism.

Acting Inspector Dave Bennett, of Darlington police, said: "The paint seems to have been sprayed with a squeezy bottle, but we are puzzled as to the motive.

"This was an act of mindless vandalism and we can reassure residents that we are taking it very seriously."

After the first attack, last Wednesday, residents criticised the lack of police presence in the area.

Somre are considering setting up a residents' association to give people a voice in the area.

People with information about the attacks can contact police on (01325) 467681 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.