A BARE-CHESTED man was caught on camera smashing in the windows of three Lingfield businesses.
High Street traders Hiz N Hairz, Lingfield Garage, and Boots the chemist in East Grinstead Road were all damaged by the vandal in the early hours of January 3.
Ray Collins, owner of Hiz N Hairz, said: "When we came in the following morning, it was a bit of a shock and not a great start to the new year.
"There is CCTV footage of the man kicking the shop fronts."
The video was captured on a CCTV camera at the garage and Mr Collins, 52, said the man was topless as he carried out the wrecking spree at about 4 in the morning.
Owner of Lingfield Garage, William Mather, said that the front door of his business had been broken.
"This is not the first time we have been the victim of this kind of vandalism," he said.
"I am trying to make a living and then this sort of thing just sets you back.
"This type of claim is too small to put through the insurance, so it just eats up profits."
Two years ago, shop fronts were damaged by a catapult.
"Lingfield is quite quiet and to have this sort of thing happen is just awful for all involved," added Mr Mather, 51.
"We are just trying to knuckle down and ride this tough time out – and then someone does this. It is just not fair."
Surrey Police have asked any witnesses to the incident or anyone with information to call the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.
The man is described as white, aged in his mid to late 20s with short hair.
He was wearing jeans with a beige belt and no top.
The police were unable to provide the CCTV image to the Mirror before the paper went to press.
