A LORRY driver who parked his vehicle less than 20 yards away from a police station says vandals have caused £5,000 worth of damage to it.

Mark Sumpton, 39, of Langmere, Spennymoor, County Durham, drives throughout the UK and Ireland for Belfast firm, Morgan McLernon.

Mr Sumpton returned home on Friday after a two-week stint away and parked the £70,000 lorry behind Spennymoor police station.

"I went to check it on Saturday and found the mirrors had been moved, which I thought was probably just kids messing," said Mr Sumpton.

"But when I went to check it again, the panels had been dented which, looking at it, must have taken a stick or bar.

"I was absolutely gutted. I parked it there because I thought it would be safe near the station, but it seems nothing is safe these days."

Mr Sumpton said his employers allow him to drive home, but if he was forced to return the vehicle to the Belfast depot, it would add days of travelling time.

He said: "I don't think the boss will be happy."

Durham Police declined to comment.