Hazel Blears' car attacked by vandals

Former cabinet minister Hazel Blears's car was attacked last night while she canvassed voters.

Vandals smashed the windscreen of the Citroen Xsara Picasso and slashed all four tyres while she knocked on doors in Weaste, Greater Manchester, police said.

The Salford MP, who was at the centre of the MPs' expenses scandal, dismissed the idea the attack could be the result of a vendetta, telling the Manchester Evening News it was "teenagers with nothing to do on a hot afternoon".

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "At about 6.25pm on Sunday police in Salford were called to Cemetery Road, Weaste, following a report that a car had been damaged.

"Between 5pm and 6.15pm, offenders had smashed the windscreen of a parked grey Citroen Xsara Picasso and slashed all four tyres.

"No-one was injured in the incident and officers are now investigating."

Ms Blears was criticised when it was revealed she failed to pay a tax bill of more than £13,000 on the sale of a flat in London.

She repaid the money and later resigned as Communities Secretary.

The police spokesman added: "Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information, is asked to call Salford CID on 0161 856 5049 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Speaking from her home today, Ms Blears said: "I have made my comment and I think it is all a bit pathetic really.

"I think it is just kids who were bored, I don't think there is anything more to it.

"Unfortunately, that is what a lot of people in my constituency have to put up with."

Asked whether the attack had shaken her up, she said: "No, not at all."