'Jockey' vandal suspected of car slashing rampage

A KNIFE-wielding but vertically-challenged man with a grudge against cars parked in Primrose Hill is believed to be at work after several vehicles had their tyres slashed.

Cars parked on the normally tranquil Albert Terrace Mews, off Regent's Park Road, have been targeted at night.

But victims believe it is more than just wanton vandalism, and have pointed the finger at residents on the mews. They believe someone is taking the law into their own hands by trying to deter other motorists from parking there.

"All this is quite sinister for the leafy streets of Primrose Hill. It is more like Hackney then Primrose Hill," said victim Stevie Dean.

"It's a public road so anyone should be able to park there. It doesn't have any yellow lines. It's probably the only road which doesn't have restrictions around here.

"People have been approached by a resident and shouted at for parking there. Recently, though, things have got much nastier.

"One resident living next to the road waited up all night and caught a man stabbing the tyres - he managed to escape in a small red Ford Escort van.

"The number plate was smeared with mud so it was impossible to get the registration. He was of jockey proportions - he was 4ft 8in and tiny."

Mews residents have denied the accusations and say they have no idea who is targeting the cars.

One woman, who did not want to be named, said: "I don't know who is doing it but it is not anyone round here. Why would the residents do that - we have all got our own spots?"

Primrose Hill Cllr Pat Callaghan backed the residents, and said: "The ones who are being blamed for these tyre slashings would not do it in a month of Sundays. They are totally committed to the community and good upstanding people."

Officers from the Safer Neighbourhoods Team will be stepping patrols in response to the incidents.