Hoodlums have gone on a graffiti rampage, vandalising cars, homes and businesses across Maitland.
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Homeowners awoke to find the damage on Tuesday morning.
The Mercury saw that almost every second home or car had been marked with graffiti in parts of Morpeth, Raworth and Tenambit.
Tenambit Newsagency bore much of the brunt of the attack and was among the worst-hit businesses.
"When I saw it all, the negative emotions came up," Tenambit Newsagency employee Bec Hyde said.
"I was angry, frustrated, furious and then to have to clean up after them - it's disgusting."
The vandalism at the Tenambit shops happened some time between midnight and 1.30am, according to CCTV footage.
Police are seeking two people in the footage to help with their investigations.
KLR Accounting owner Kristie Rose said the actions of these few hoodlums was disrespectful to small business owners and residents alike.
"They don't realise how much it costs," she said.
"The cost of removal, the time to the business because of the disruption.
"This is the worst I have ever seen it."
For residents in Raworth and Morpeth, it was the final straw in a long line of attacks on their community.
"I am really angry," resident Jude Vautier said.
"On Saturday they put road cones on the car, they have broken into my garage a few times and stolen things.
"This was my grandmother's house."
Ms Vautier's car was parked in the driveway and was completely vandalised with silver paint. Her next door neighbour's car was also covered in paint.
In Raworth, more than 20 vehicles were vandalised overnight. Many had crude images painted on them.
Homes were also painted with tags.
Dean and Kristen Jack's home was among them.
"Obviously it is very devastating," Mr Jack said.
"We have just got back from holidays and we heard the dogs barking at 10.30 or 11 last night, but didn't think anything of it.
"I can't believe how many places they have done.
"Residents will not put up with this, having property damaged and graffiti.
"We will rally together."
Anyone with information in relation to the incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
