Corrosive substance used to vandalise 25 cars at A30 business.

POLICE have launched an investigation after an attack at a family-run garage caused around �25,000 worth of damage to cars.

Otter Vale Motor Services, on the A30 at Upottery, was targeted by vandals, who caused substantial damage to 25 cars after they were sprayed with a highly corrosive substance shortly before 8pm last Friday.

Three culprits, who were captured on CCTV, wreaked havoc in just a few minutes.

The garage owner, Kevin Spiller, said: “It is a family- run business and we have always done our best to help people and, when this kind of thing happens, it is offensive to me personally.

“It has not sunk in yet, but everybody is furious - just to think that someone could do that.”

He added: “The damage was pretty serious. It was not just a little bit; there was substantial damage done to 25 cars.

“It did surprise me as things were going well with the business.”

The damaged cars, which were valued at between �2,000 and �16,000, included Porches, BMW’s and Minis.

Mr Spiller told The Midweek Herald: “We won’t be selling any of those cars this week, but things like this just make you stronger. It will affect business in the short-term only.

“The good news for future customers, who buy a car that is five or 10 years old, is that they can get them with brand new paintwork,” said Mr Spiller.

One of the perpetrators was described as wearing a dark hooded jacket and jeans.

Acting sergeant Matthew Sinker said: “This will have a serious impact on a local business and I would very much like to apprehend those responsible.”

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 08452 777444, quoting crime reference number KH/11/136.