VANDALS used cans of oil to wreak havoc at Winchester's River Park Leisure Centre.

They sprayed the outside of the sports centre, drenched a car, poured it around the car park and all over its ticket machines.

The attack could force bosses at the centre to install hi-tech CCTV cameras.

Council staff are now attempting to clear up the mess which is estimated to cost the public purse hundreds of pounds.

Peter Leamore, general manager at the centre, said: "It's the inconvenience and the fact that it looks unsightly that's irritating. It could have been very dangerous if they had decided to light a match to it."

A scene of complete devastation awaited one motorist whose car had been targeted in the attack on the car park in Gordon Road.

They snapped off one of the vehicle's wing mirrors and used it to smash in both the front and back windscreens.

The vandals then proceeded to pour oil over the car's bodywork and seats before stealing two pairs of Umbro football boots and one pair of Adidas boots. It is estimated that it will cost the owner, who had parked his car at the centre while he stayed at his brother's house nearby, around £1,100 to repair the damage. The space in which the car was parked had to be cordoned off.

Mr Leamore added: "This is a rare occurrence and we are now looking to install CCTV in the car park.

"I have been liaising with the local beat officer over this and we will both be pressing for this with the council."

Anyone with information on the attack can call Winchester police station on 0845 045 4545.