POLICE investigating mindless damage to property in Leighton that will cost thousands of pounds to repair have arrested three people.

Members of the Leighton Buzzard Safer Neighbourhood Team arrested a 17-year-old and a 19-year-old on Wednesday (August 20) and a 15-year-old on Thursday on suspicion of causing criminal damage.

All three were taken to Dunstable Police Station for questioning and later released on police bail to September 21, pending further enquiries.

The arrests follow a spate of vandalism between July 27 and August 10 to public and private property in and around the town.

Leighton-Linslade Town Council put up a £100 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for ruining safety matting and cabling at the popular children's play area in Weston Avenue.

In addition, more than £2,000 damage was caused to platform paving slabs at the Leighton Buzzard Railway and extensive damage was caused to a caravan at Charity Farm, Eggington.

Team Sergeant, Chris Bull, said that despite the arrests it is still "very much a live inquiry" and he appealed for any witnesses or those with information to come forward.

He said: "Leighton Buzzard is not noted for high levels of criminal damage like this and many people are appalled at what has happened over the last few weeks.

"We are keen to bring this inquiry to a successful conclusion and it is important that anyone with information contact us as soon as possible. We would stress this can be done in complete confidence."

Anyone with information can contact SNT officer PC Alistair Litchfield, in confidence, on 01582 473434, the main switchboard on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.