Police have stepped up patrols in a bid to protect a troubled doctor’s surgery from vandals.

The Marymead branch of the Knebworth and Marymead Medical Practice, situated on the edge of Stevenage, has suffered a series of setbacks thanks to yobs.

Overnight on Monday, someone set light to the bins at the back of the surgery.

At the end of August, vandals ripped up flowers out the front and in June offenders threw stones at the windows, which caused a crack to one of them.

Inspector Simon Tabert, from the Stevenage Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “The doctor’s surgery falls within a priority area for the Safer Neighbourhood Team, which means officers regularly patrol there to deal with antisocial behaviour.

“We have also visited the surgery and have spoken to staff there regarding crime prevention measures.

“I’d like to reassure the community that we are continuing to work with our policing partners such as the council to solve the long term problems and, over the next few weeks, there will be a significantly increased police presence.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and we will seek to take action against offenders.

“I would urge the public to always report antisocial behaviour to the police so that we can take the appropriate action.”