An Axminster woman has said she has had to take a "step back" from her business plans after her new beauty salon was targeted by vandals.

Melissa Winn was planning to open the Blush Beauty Salon at Milton's Yard – a small shopping area tucked away off West Street – in late March.

But just two weeks before opening, the the salon was targeted with damage caused inside and items stolen.

The incident took place some time during Friday, March 11 and the previous night several other businesses in Milton's Yard were targeted with black paint thrown across their frontages.

Melissa said: "Thankfully I've not lost any clients or customers but it's meant that I've had to take a step back from being a salon owner, which is something I have spent the last 14 years working towards."

Melissa, who offers beauty treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections, dermal filler, eyelash extensions and manicures, said she no longer felt safe opening her business in Milton's Yard.

Instead, she is planning to opening a log cabin or renting a treatment room temporarily until she finds a new permanent premises.

Police have asked anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with information to contact them on 101 quoting CR/021189/22.