POSSESSIONS were left strewn across the seafront after more than 20 beach huts were ransacked in an overnight raid.

The frustrated owners left to foot the bill for repairs have branded the vandalism as “mindless”.

Between 20 and 30 huts along Dovercourt seafront were broken into overnight on Thursday, with damage caused to doors and items inside.

Biscuits and crisps were taken, and possibly a pair of binoculars.

The raiders are thought to have used a crowbar to break open the hut doors before searching the sheds.

Harwich councillor Jo Henderson has had a hut along the promenade for 23 years and it was targeted in the break-ins.

She said: “I can’t believe it has happened. All our hard work to get it looking nice for the summer and then this happens – I am very disappointed."