VANDALS who slashed car tyres in Malvern over the weekend could have caused a serious accident.

One driver got in his car and drove away before discovering the problem.

At least eight cars in Madresfield Road and Pound Bank Road were attacked last Saturday night.

The damage was discovered at various times the following morning, as owners returned to their vehicles.

Police reported that five vehicles parked by the side of Pound Bank Road were attacked. Three in nearby Madresfield Road were also targeted, two parked in driveways and the third by the roadside.

Madresfield Road resident Deb Hocking said at least four cars in her road had been hit.

"There was mine, my husband's and two neighbours that I saw," she said.

"My brother came over on Sunday morning for a lift and that's when I discovered it. At first I thought it must have been an accident, but then I saw my neighbour changing his tyre."

She said her husband Gary drove to Welland and back before the damage to his tyre became apparent.

A police spokesman said: "No-one should be unaware that vandalism like this could have very serious repercussions. In most of these particular incidents, the car owners spotted the tyre damage before driving their cars, although one driver only discovered the problem when driving his car.

"A slashed or damaged tyre can markedly affect the safety and handling of a vehicle and the potential very serious consequences doesn't bear thinking about."

Anyone with information about the incident should call 08457 444888 or 0800 555111.