Random drive-by shootings in which ball bearings are believed to used as bullets have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to cars.

In just one night, 19 parked cars were hit in Witney, Carterton and Eynsham.

Since May 13, about 40 vehicles have been damaged in Witney, Carterton, Burford, Crawley, Eynsham, North Leigh, Curbridge and Brize Norton. John Pole had his Honda Prelude damaged three times since May 13.

He said: "Having been a detective in the Met for 26 years, I was quite appalled by the scale of all this.

"I took my car to have the windscreen repaired at a place in Cowley and was told they have been inundated with similar repair jobs."

John Pratt, landlord of the Three Pigeons at Wood Green, said: "This is serious, not just because of the damage and the cost of repairs - I have just had to pay out £362 to repair the back window on my Volvo. Somebody could be inside one of these cars and get hit."

Pc Steve Cox, of Witney police, said patrols would be increased.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or 08458 505505.