A motorist has been told he cannot put up security cameras to protect his car – despite it being vandalised twice in the space of a week.

Michael Hudston, of Chelwood Close, Chippenham, wanted to put up the camera after attacks on cars belonging to him and his partner.

Both cars were pelted with eggs on January 2, damaging paintwork on Mr Hudston’s vehicle.

A week later black paint was sprayed on Mr Hudston’s car.

But, because he parks in a lay-by and not on his own property, the police told him he is not permitted to put up a security camera as it would be a violation of public privacy.

Mr Hudston, 40, who has lived in the close for ten years, said: “The second attack was particularly nasty as it involved covering every panel of the car, plus the front windscreen, and ended with a four-letter expletive being written all along the driver’s side.

“There have also been other incidents, including my door buzzer being pressed then the offender running away, and my wheelie bin being deliberately filled up with other people’s rubbish.

“The thing that really annoys me is that I’m not allowed to put up a security camera to protect myself against these attacks – just because people walking past may be caught on tape.”

Sergeant Steve McGrath, of Chippenham Police, said the area had been a neighbourhood priority because of anti-social behaviour but had recently been taken off the list as things were improving. Nevertheless it is still regulary patrolled and the police are working with schools, agencies and Neighbourhood Watch.

He asked people to contact the police, local council or housing associations about any anti-social behaviour. “It can be a long process but we take it very seriously,” he said.