A SPEED camera has been torched by yobs for a second time in less than a month.

The thugs set light to the device in South Road, South Ockendon.

They placed rubbish on it and set light to it. The flames then spread, causing £7,000 damage.

The same camera was torched just two weeks where yobs caused £500 damage.

Police are now appealing for witnesses.

Sgt Mandy Copleston, of South Ockendon police, said: “This is not only dangerous, but a waste of money to the taxpayer.

“These people may think they are being clever, but it will be replaced, as it is there to protect other drivers and pedestrians from speeding motorists.

“If you saw who did this or know who is responsible, I urge you to contact us before any more emergency services are diverted away from helping people at the hands of these vandals.”

Witnesses to the latest incident, which happened at 9.40pm on Sunday, January 31, can contact police at South Ockendon on 0300 3334444.