Rampaging vandals caused damage of many thousands of pounds to Winchester residents' cars last weekend.

The attacks, on Saturday night, are believed to be the largest single acts of vehicle vandalism in the city's history.

The culprits, described by one fuming victim, as "street urchins", targeted around 70 vehicles within an area around a square mile in central Winchester.

Huge scratches were carved down whole lengths of vehicles parked in Wharf Hill, College Street, St Swithun Street, Cathedral View and Symonds' Street.

Officers believe the vandals followed a route as the targeted streets all link up with one another.

Martin Wilson, a marketing manager from St Thomas Street, whose Audi in Symonds' Street was targeted, reckoned it would cost at least £500 to have his vehicle repaired. "It's just wanton vandalism. I can't understand how anyone would have the mentality to do this."

Mr Wilson (33) added that he believed the attack could have been the result of a drunken night out. "Something really needs to be done about policing and alcohol in the central area. This behaviour can't be tolerated in what is a lovely city."

Graham Callard, crime desk manager at Winchester police station, said: "This is an exceptionally high number of vehicles to be damaged in such a short period of time.

"In my 30-year career, I have never seen so many. Even if you averaged the cost of repair work out to £250 per vehicle, which would probably be quite modest, it's a lot of money."

Inspector Steve France-Sargeant added: "This is mindless criminal damage. There is no discrimination in the vehicles targeted. They include a broad range of expensive vehicles and cars of a lesser value. Anyone could have been a victim. We are working hard to trace the culprits, but we need the community's help.

"Forensic teams have inspected some of the cars and CCTV from the city centre is being looked at. We are appealing for anyone with private security camera systems in place near the affected streets to get in touch, as they may have vital evidence. We are also appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

"I'm urging anyone who saw people acting suspiciously in the area, even if it didn't seem important at the time, to get in touch.

"We are determined to catch those responsible, but policing is not just a job for the police. It's a job for the whole community and on this occasion the whole community was targeted. Someone must know who the culprits are."

l Anyone who can help police with their enquiries is asked contact PC Steve Way on 0845 045 4545 or anonymously using the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.