Wrecking spree at A5 businesses

BUSINESSES on the A5 are counting the cost after thugs went on a wrecking spree, throwing stones and plant pots into plate glass windows.

The small clutch of retail units, Bengal Chef, Bubble Boyz car wash and Sweet Treats dessert parlour, just up from Dodwells roundabout on the way to the M69, were targeted in an apparently senseless surge of violence.

Sweet Treats was hardest hit. Bosses Raj and Amanda Kohi estimate damage amounted to more than £10,000.

They have pledged to ramp up security in a bid to prevent a repeat attack. Images and video footage from CCTV cameras has been passed onto police who are investigating.

The couple were unaware of what had happened until staff went in to open up on the morning of Wednesday March 22. A major clear-up ensued.

Amanda said: “Apparently it all happened at about 11.40pm. A car pulled up on the car park and people got out. One started catapulting rocks through the win- dows and another threw stones and picked up plant pots and started smashing them through the windows.

“It was mainly us at Sweet Treats that got the brunt of it - but we have no idea why. It’s really quite scary and everyone has been left in shock.”

She said they were considering installing security shutters and expected to be out of pocket to keep the business running while the insurance claim was being processed.

But, she added, they were determined to carry on. “It was business as usual the next day. We have been upset by it all but we have just had to get on and deal with it. Our customers have been brilliant and so supportive.

“We are a family business and we work hard every day to give our customers a lovely treat and see happy faces, especially the little ones. It’s a shame there are people out there who are trying to ruin it.”

If anyone has information about the incident contact Leicestershire Police on 101.