Co-owner’s fears for the future after vandals smash windows at family-run Relymart store in New Milton

“IF this happens again, we can’t survive,” a New Milton store’s co-owner has warned after vandals smashed its windows.

Family-run Relymart, which opened at Mallard Buildings on Station Road last summer, was targeted last Tuesday.

Four panes of glass were damaged in the incident, although internal shutters stopped them gaining entry.

But Dileep Thomas, who owns the business with his wife Asha Joseph, wants extra security measures, including external shutters.

He found the damage when he arrived for work shortly after 7am last Wednesday.

“It’s really hard. We are a new shop in the town. It’s hard for our business,” he told the A&T.

“We need improved security in the town. I had tried to put a shutter outside, but I was told I needed planning permission.

“I hope to get shutters put outside now because if this happens again, we can’t survive. It’s quite a lot of money this is costing us.”

As well as the damaged windows, fresh fruit and vegetables inside were covered in broken glass.

Believing the offenders came to vandalise and not burgle, Mr Thomas added: “Luckily, they didn’t get in, which is the main thing, as otherwise it would have been really bad.”

CCTV footage was being reviewed amid police investigations.

A Hampshire force spokesperson said: “As part of our enquiries, we would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or saw anything suspicious in the area between the times stated.

“Please also get in touch with us if you have any footage of the incident, including doorbell camera, dash cam, mobile phone, or any other CCTV.”

Those with information should contact officers online via hampshire.police.uk or call 101, quoting reference 44250097761.