A BUSINESSMAN is calling for community action to stem the tide of vandalism which is "tarnishing" part of York.

Graham Carver has coupled his appeal with the offer of a cash reward for information, after his firm's window was deliberately smashed.

The director of financial advisors York FM, at Martin House, Barley Rise, Strensall, is to hold a meeting with businesses and residents to try to tackle the problem.

He said a recent spate of vandalism was damaging businesses, adding: "It is only a small minority that are creating all the hassle, and it is harming the reputation of the village."

He said recent attacks in Barley Rise have included a smashed electricity box, graffiti, damaged guttering and lighting, doors broken down, as well as problems with litter and teenagers drinking alcohol.

Mr Carver, whose shop front window was broken despite its toughened glass, said the problems were "tarnishing Strensall".

It follows an incident in February, when thugs pelted the No 5 bus in Strensall with bottles, forcing First bus chiefs to cancel the service as a safety precaution.

Mr Carver's firm has been at Martin House for seven years, alongside a butchers, hairdressers, security firm, dentist and a Costcutter store.

"We think someone has shot at the window with a gun or catapult," he said. "It cost about £260 to replace. For a small business, it is a week's wages for some people. It is just malicious - kids not knowing what to do with themselves. Enough is enough. We need some cameras.

"I think the parish council ought to contribute because it affects the community."

Dave Taylor, of neighbouring DN Taylor Butchers, said: "Vandals have destroyed my 'special offer board'. It is on a metal stand and has been bent.

"The drainpipe has been pulled off and my letter box has been bent. It is terrible. I have been here 22 years and the problem has got worse."

He supported moves to improve security, but said businesses should not have to pay for cameras.

Strensall Parish Council chairman Peter Jesse said other vandalism incidents had triggered meetings with the police.

He urged victims to report every incident so police knew where to direct their attentions.

He agreed that cameras could help scare off offenders, but he stressed they carried a cost.

"It would be something the parish council could look at."

The public meeting for tenants of Martin House and local residents will take place next Tuesday, in Strensall Village Hall, from 6.30pm.

Mr Carver has offered an undisclosed cash reward for anyone with information about the damage to his property which leads to a conviction. He can be contacted on 0845 4504447.

Updated: 09:27 Tuesday, May 23, 2006