A STRING of " mischievous" attacks on a Kendal shopping area have taken on a sinister edge, which left a shopping centre manager nursing cut hands.

Vandals have pulled down hanging baskets, ripped out Christmas lights and spread soil around Blackhall Yard on four occasions since last Wednesday.

But since they first struck on mischief night their actions have become increasingly serious and on Sunday night the gang mixed glass in with the soil.

Those responsible for looking after the yard believe it was a deliberate attempt to cause harm.

Blackhall Yard shopping centre manager Lisa Moore said when she began yet another clean-up operation on Monday morning she received several cuts to her hands.

Meanwhile, in Ulverston police are investigating numerous instances of criminal damage in the town on Hallowe'en when motor vehicles, buildings and telephone kiosks were targeted.

During the evening a car was overturned on Hart Street and the vehicle was later sprayed with paint by youths after being put back on four wheels by the police.

In another incident, tyres were removed from the forecourt of Spencers garage in Victoria Road and thrown onto the carriageway causing a serious road safety hazard.

Extra officers had to be drafted into the town to deal with groups of youths causing a nuisance and acting inspector Nick Coughlan said some of the blame rested with parents for allowing their children to go out at night without questioning what activities they would be involved in.