An estate agency in Norwich had its windows smashed in what appears to be a mindless act of vandalism.

A window at Abbotts in Exchange Street was badly damaged, with other businesses in the local area being urged to report acts of vandalism.

The building was fully repaired on Wednesday amid a rising trend for premesis vandalism.

It follows other businesses such as The Book Hive in London Street and Chadds in Bedford Street being targeted.

Kerry Blue, branch manager of Abbotts, told the press: “Staff came into work on the Saturday morning to find it had been smashed.

“It looked like someone had a glass in their hand at the time from what was left on the floor.

“We assumed it was someone who had been drinking the night before.”

Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) has encouraged managers and owners to share information on criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

Stefan Gurney, executive director at Norwich BID, commented: “We have a crime reduction scheme that helps businesses support each other and make them aware of criminal activity in the city.

“We work with the city council and police with CCTV investigation so that if anyone is caught on camera that can be sent straight to the police for prosecution.

“Obviously it’s a very challenging time for businesses and any additional cost is far from ideal.

“If anyone sees acts of vandalism it should be shared with the business or police to make sure the people doing these acts are prosecuted and to help businesses in a challenging time.”