Bannockburn wrecking spree

Nov 11 2011 by Johnathon Menzies, Stirling Observer Friday

VANDALS caused damage to around a dozen vehicles parked on Bannockburn’s Station Road during an overnight wrecking spree, according to locals.

Businessman Michael McInally was seething yesterday morning (Thursday) when he discovered the van he relies on to run his gardening firm had been targeted.

And he told the Observer the number of his neighbours who had been apparent victims of the unruly behaviour continued to rise as the morning wore on.

Mr McInally initially estimated approximately six vehicles in the street were sporting broken windows as a result of the carnage, but he went on to reveal as many as 12 disgruntled owners were counting the cost later in the day.

Central Scotland Police were said to have been quickly on the scene once the matter had been reported, including crime scene investigators who carried-out forensic examinations.

Long-time Station Road resident Mr McInally said: “Someone’s smashed one of the windows, and they must have got inside the van as they’ve wrecked the steering column, the handbrake and the panel on the side of the door.

“They must have gone up and down the length of the street because I’ve heard of about 12 people who have had windows smashed.

“I noticed the damage when I went outside at about 7.45am. I suppose it must have happened overnight.

“It seems to be mostly cars and my van. I’ve contacted my insurance company, but the damage means I’ll probably not be able to do any work today [Thursday] – I need my van for my work.

“I’ve been here for about 15 years. There’s been other times when things have happened in the street but nothing like this, that I can remember anyway.

“There is CCTV down the stairs from where I live so hopefully something will show up on that.

“This is the last thing I need to be honest.”

It’s estimated the collective bill for the damage could run into thousands of pounds.

Mr McInally praised the police for their quick response and asked any witnesses to contact the local constabulary with any information.

Central Scotland Police can be contacted on 01786 456000, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

An investigation was understood to be still ongoing as the Observer went to press yesterday (Thursday).