THE owner of a Coleford takeaway is bitter after police gave only a caution to a man who smashed his shop window – then refused to pass on his name and address for a claim for repairs.

Raymond Ho, proprietor of the town's popular Chinese food takeaway, said he can identify the offender and has witnesses to the crime, but in spite of this the police had decided not to prosecute the man.

"He was arrested and taken to the police station where I understand he admitted breaking the window, but they then let him off with a caution when to my mind it is a clear case of criminal damage," said Mr Ho.

"I was amazed when the police told me they were not going to take any further action and the man had only been cautioned.

"The window was kicked in on December 28, more than a week ago, and when I heard they were not going to prosecute I asked for the name and address of the man so that I could send him the bill for repairs.

"If no-one is prosecuted then that leaves me liable for the repair unless I can get him to pay – it is his responsibility. I have an excess of £250 on my insurance so it is not worth making a claim for the job which will cost £200-£300.

"All the police did was take my name and fax and email number and say they would be in touch and I waited and waited then eventually called and they said they would contact the officer concerned.

"I have tried again and I am simply being told someone will take a look at my inquiry."

A spokesman for Gloucestershire police confirmed a 30 year-old man had been arrested for the offence which took place at 1.15am. She said the man had then been cautioned.

"The police cannot simply give the man's address so that someone can go round and knock on the door and ask for money," she said.

"Mr Ho must make a civil claim through the County Court to recover his costs and he has been made aware of this.

"There is a proper procedure for this and the court will be able to find the offender and take appropriate action."