The vandalism of 27 beach huts in Frinton has called for an urgent appeal for witnesses and information.

The incident took place in the early hours of Saturday morning when the huts were broken into and various items were thrown around.  The row of damaged huts which were at High Wall, below Connaught Avenue and heading towards Walton.

The vandals targeted a large section of huts and belongings were dumped on the promenade and on the beach.  Most of the owners were members of Frinton Beach Hut Association and they were alerted by their association to what had happened.  Tendring Council, which leases out land for the huts, contacted the four owners who were not part of the association.

Councillor Nick Turner, who has responsibility for seafronts, condemned the actions as wanton vandalism.

He said: “This is a significant number of beach huts and a large number of owners have been affected by this criminal damage.

“These beach huts are people’s pride and joy and they will have put a great deal of time and money into keeping them up to the best possible standard.

“It is hugely upsetting for them that they have been broken into, damaged and personal belongings have been strewn along the promenade and beach.

“It is purely wanton vandalism of the worst kind and we do not know yet if anything was stolen.

“I really feel for the owners who have suffered from this incident.”

Mr Turner asked for anyone who has any idea who may have been responsible – or saw anything suspicious in that area at the time – to contact either council or the police.

The issue has been reported to Essex Police and the damage will run into many thousands of pounds.