Mindless yobs have targeted a well-known business three times in a week, leaving a trail of damage.

The culprits – believed to be a gang of teenagers – have climbed up scaffolding and ripped several of the letters off the sign at Ann Morgan Opticians in Cleator Moor.

They have also pulled themselves onto the roof of the three-storey building on High Street damaging slates as well as kicking the back gate and damaging its lock.

The incidents have taken place over the last week and a member of the public told builders working on the site that they had spotted a group of youths sitting on the roof last Saturday.

Optical assistant Alison Cowen said: “They’ve climbed up four levels of scaffolding and onto the roof.

“The next night they’ve smashed the back gate in and were climbing the wall. Because they’ve got up onto the roof, they’ve smashed about 30 slates and not just on our shop.

“We are all so annoyed and shocked.”

Work has been ongoing for the last few weeks to tidy up the building and those working in the shop are unhappy that the hard work has been destroyed by a small group of people.

Linzie McCaslin, optical advisor, said: “This has caused a lot of upset as Ann Morgan’s brings a lot to the community of Cleator Moor.

“Ann has spent a lot of money tidying up the old building and now faces the inconvenience and costs of replacing the signage.”

Since Deborah Slattery, who works at the business, posted on social media what had happened, they have been inundated with messages of support – and disgust – from members of the public.

Patricia Anne Sharkey said: “Shameful behaviour... Tidying up your building for the good of the town and this is how you are repaid. Not a bit of wonder nothing gets done in this now Ghost Town.”

And Carol Ferguson said: “A lot of people put a lot of time and effort into supporting the local community, it’s a shame some people go and ruin it.”

Police are investigating the incidents and appealing for anyone with information to come forward by calling 101.