THE most effective deterrent for would-be vandals is the probability that they will be caught.

So congratulations to Stratton pensioner Valerie Hearn for having the courage and tenacity to capture CCTV images of the 16-year-old youth who threw paint at her front door. We hope the compensation awarded to her by the court will help to put things right for her. And that having to pay it will give the youth and his mates reason for reflection.

Menaces like these ruin people's security.