POLICE are today quizzing a man in connection with a spate of overnight vandalism on banks and shops in Reading town centre.
A series of nine businesses in Broad Street, Queen Victoria Street, Friar Street and West Street sustained damaged windows and doors when they were targeted in the early hours.
Officers have arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of criminal damage and he is being held in custody.
The Barclays branch in Broad Street was among those hit and has today been cordoned off with police tape after one of its glass window panels was shattered.
Noone tried to enter the branch or steal any money during the incident but the staff must wait until the damage is fixed before letting anyone in.
Customers are being told to go to alternative branches in Caversham, Woodley and Tilehurst.
Staff inside are clearing up and making calls and have told customers they are unlikely to open until later today.
A spokeswoman for Barclays said: "We can confirm that an incident took place at Barclay's Broad Street overnight.
"There was external damage but noone entered the branch. We are currently working with the local police regarding the incident.
"We apologise for any inconvenience caused while we wait for the damage to be repaired before we can open the doors on what we expect to be a busy Friday."
Customers can still withdraw money from the outside ATM.
A police spokeswoman said: “Nine businesses across the town centre sustained damage to their windows and in some cases their doors in the early hours of today.
“We are investigating the incidents of criminal damage.”
Anyone who witnessed the attacks should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.
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