A group of teenagers in a north Shropshire town has been ordered to stay at home during the evening after police made a string of arrests following a spate of alleged vandal attacks.

Investigators have not said how many youngsters were arrested, but have confirmed all were aged 12 to 16.

They have been released on police bail and put under curfews, forcing them to remain at home between 7pm and 7am, pending further inquiries.

It comes after vandals were blamed for a string of incidents of criminal damage in Wem between November 7 and 14. Police received eight reports of damage done to walls in the town.

Constable Dave Carpenter, of Wem police, urged people with information to come forward on 03003 333000.

Richard Ewels, spokesman for Shropshire police division, said: “Coping stones and bricks have been removed from properties through the town centre between November 7 and 14 causing distress to residents and concerns for neighbours.

“A police inquiry commenced immediately and thanks to information from members of the public, a number of arrests of youths aged 12 to 16 have followed.

“The suspects are now on strict police bail, with curfews to remain at home between 7pm and 7am each day, pending further arrests and inquiries.”