Police are appealing for information to identify who is behind a series of incidents in which objects have been thrown at buses.

Officers have received a number of reports of First buses being targeted in Pitsea, Benfleet and Canvey, resulting in smashed windows.

The most recent incident was at the junction of the A13 and A132 in Pitsea on Thursday 14 February at 8.40pm.

There were another two incidents on Wednesday February 13 - one near the Sadlers Farm roundabout in London Road, Benfleet, between 6.30pm and 6.35pm, and another in Arundel Road, Benfleet, at about 7.55pm.

Another bus was targeted in Canvey Road, Canvey, on Saturday February 9 at about 7pm.

We also received three similar reports in Benfleet between Saturday January 5 and Friday January 11 and another in High Street, Shoeburyness, on Monday January 28.

Insp Cathy Calder said: “These mindless acts of vandalism have caused considerable damage to a number of buses, which not only has a significant impact on the bus company and the community, but also puts lives in danger.

“It is very fortunate that no-one was hurt when the windows of these vehicles were smashed.

“It’s not yet clear if the same people are responsible for all of these incidents, but we are continuing our enquiries and are keen to speak to any witnesses, particularly any drivers who have dash cam footage.

“Someone will know who is involved and we ask anyone who has any information to contact us.”

Call the Castle Point and Rochford local policing team on 101.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.