THUGS have left a £40,000 pricetag after damaging houses under construction.

Overnight into Monday morning, Barratt Homes properties were damaged and items stolen at the Brackenhill View site in Hamilton.

Police believe several people would have been in the area at the time.

PC Karen Selley of Hamilton Police office states: “This incident has instigated a significant enquiry to find those responsible.

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"Due to the cost of the damage and the conduct of those involved, the crime is being treated as malicious mischief, which can carry a heavy fine or even a prison sentence on conviction.

"We believe there may have been several people present at the time of the incident. If anyone was present at the time of the incident, they have an opportunity to come forward as a witness.

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"If they fail to do so and are later identified, they may find themselves accused as part of a group engaged in this criminality. We will be reviewing site CCTV and increasing patrols in the locality to identify those responsible.”

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101.