A CAMPAIGN has been launched to stop vandals putting lives at risk by throwing objects at cars from a footbridge over the A31.

The New Forest Community Safety Partnership (CSP) is targeting the pedestrian bridge linking Queens Way to Winston Way over the section of trunk road from Poulner to Ringwood.

Police say passing cars have been struck by missiles ranging from small stones to chunks of brick.

Last summer more than five potentially life-threatening incidents were recorded in the area of the footbridge and police called in Hampshire County Council officers to help find a solution to the problem.

Victims of the vandals included a 70-year-old woman from Dibden Purlieu whose wing mirror was smashed, a 41-year-old man from New Milton whose windscreen was perforated and a 53-year-old businessman from Wimborne who was lucky to escape unhurt when a brick crashed through his car window.

Members of the CSP are working together to prevent further incidents. Hampshire Police, Community First and the Highways Agency are looking at CCTV, improved lighting around the bridge and clearing the verges of debris and undergrowth.

Other CSP members are planning to go to schools in the area to warn pupils about the possible repercussions of this particular sort of vandalism.

Inspector John Kenna, of Ringwood police, said: "This is very dangerous, reckless and thoughtless behaviour.

"If the windscreen shatters, the driver loses all sight of the road and becomes disorientated."

Councillor Goff Beck, New Forest District Council portfolio holder for crime and disorder, said: "Throwing missiles at moving vehicles could kill someone.

"Anyone witnessing this antisocial behaviour should report it immediately to the police by dialling 999."