The vandals targeted the four vehicles outside a house in Greywood Close, in the Clavering area of Hartlepool, in the early hours of the morning.

Hartlepool Police have launched an investigation to find out who is responsible.

A black Toyota Celica, a silver Toyota Supra, a Seat Cordoba and a Mitsubishi van were all damaged in the incident, which happened between 3am and 5am on Friday.

A police spokeswoman appealed for any witnesses to the incident to come forward.

She said: "Between 3am and 5am on Friday, three cars parked on the drive of a house in Greywood Close and a car parked on the road outside of the house, were all damaged.

"It is believed that paint-stripper was thrown on the cars and the tyres were slashed. Any witnesses, or anyone who knows who is responsible, should contact us."

The owner of the vehicles did not wish to comment. Witnesses should telephone Hartlepool Police on (01642) 302126.