An estate became a “no-go” area during Halloween when a group of up to 100 youths reportedly descended on it, smashing things up, throwing eggs at families, stealing decorations and hurling pumpkins at front doors.

Mum-of-three Sarah Simpson was left “heartbroken” after discovering the spooky postbox topper she had spent more than 40 hours making had been destroyed during the chaos.

Police were called to Kings Hill during the evening of October 31, following reports of nuisance behaviour.

It comes as residents said between 80-100 young people were causing “absolute mayhem”.

Officers attended Alexander Grove just before 8pm and were able to speak to those involved and disperse groups, a spokesman for the force said.

Sarah’s postbox topper was destroyed in nearby Discovery Drive.

The 39-year-old said: “I am upset because these toppers take over 40 hours to make and are loved by the community and children.

“I have never had an issue with them being taken or destroyed as they have been so loved by the town.

“Unfortunately, I feel I won’t be doing anymore now as it is heart-breaking to have that much time and work ruined.

“It’s such a shame that one or a few people can ruin it for all.”

Meanwhile, Craig, who did not wish to give his last name, was shocked to witness children throwing eggs and causing damage to property the same night.

He said: “My autistic son was really scared, and it ruined everything he had been planning for weeks.”

Another resident said the town was a “no-go” area that evening and he said he had seen groups of children smashing things up, throwing eggs at families, stealing Halloween decorations and throwing pumpkins at a front door.

He said: “Teenagers descended on Kings Hill with the sole intention of causing absolute mayhem.

“The police were contacted and were patrolling Kings Hill but didn't seem to be able to do much with the situation.”

The police and parish council were contacted for more information.

The same evening, a dispersal order was issued in Snodland and Holborough Lakes during prime trick-or-treating hours after police reported increased anti-social behaviour.

The order ran from 4pm until 1am on November 1.

The orders allow police and PCSOs the power to issue a person to leave a specified area and not return for up to 48 hours.