POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a three hour spate of criminal damage after about 40 vehicles were vandalised across Hampshire, including in Grateley and Nether Wallop.

It is believed the suspects were travelling in a green Seat people carrier and damaged vehicles between 3.40-6.40pm yesterday.

Vehicles were also targeted in Timsbury, Furzley, Bramshaw, Brook, Poulner, Picket Post and further 12 in Dorset.

It was reported that the group were travelling around in a green people-carrier firing catapults at parked cars.

Detective Inspector Amanda Horsburgh has said: “There are a significant number of enquiries to be conducted due to the sheer volume of cars damaged. So far we have established in excess of 40 offences.

“We are urging anyone who saw any of these incidents occurring to get in contact with us. Perhaps you saw a group in a green people carrier in these areas at around this time? Or maybe your car was damaged and you haven’t reported it yet?

"We would really like to hear from you. Please get in contact via 101 quoting 44150344762.”

Amongst the persons arrested were four boys aged between 13 and 16 and three men aged between 19 and 39.

All seven have been released on bail this afternoon until January 11, 2016 pending further enquiries.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary, working with colleagues from Dorset Police and the National Police Air Service, arrested seven people on suspicion of Conspiracy to Commit Criminal Damage.

Anyone with information, or anyone who has discovered damage to their vehicle, is asked to call police on 101 quoting 4415344762.