CALLS for proper CCTV coverage in Haslemere have been made after a resident was nearly blinded when an egg was hurled at her from a fast-moving light-coloured hatchback, earlier this month.

Artist Diana Burch was walking with a friend on the pavement opposite the Esso garage en route to the community choir in Haslewey, when she was struck by the missile at around 7.40pm, on November 2.

There were also reports of a large group of young people throwing eggs on Lion Green and of eggs being thrown out of a car at pedestrians in Chiddingfold.

Diana said: “I didn’t see it coming and the impact exploded the shell into the surface of my eye.

“It left me with abrasions on the eye surface, as well as the massive and painful bruising to go with it.

“I was x-rayed for fractures to the orbit, but was lucky to at least escape that.

“Whoever they are, they are not kids having fun. They are old enough to be out in a car and therefore to be aware of their actions and the consequences.

“I was genuinely terrified and in terrible pain. As always, good people in Haslemere helped me.

“Worryingly, there is no CCTV whatsoever outside the betting shop, Esso garage, or gun shop. I can’t have been the only person affected that night, but possibly the only with an injury serious enough for A&E and to report to the police.

“Because there is no CCTV officially covering the roads in the area, the police felt unable to start enquiries as I didn’t have any solid identity details.

“So I spent the first couple of days of what should have been recuperation from the pain and mild concussion, visiting shops and businesses who may have their own CCTV.”

Haslemere neighbourhood specialist officer Pc Will Davies said patrols were increased in the town around Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night and that any anti-social behaviour, including throwing eggs, was treated ‘extremely seriously.’

Surrey Police are appealing for anyone targeted in a similar offence, or with information to come forward.

Responding to calls for official CCTV coverage, Haslemere Town Council said it had already met with Surrey Police and plans were in the pipeline to provide coverage.

Clerk Lisa O’Sullivan told The Herald: “The town council was saddened to hear of the attack on Mrs Burch and very much hopes that she makes a swift recovery.

“We take the security of our residents very seriously and were already in discussion with the police about CCTV provision in the town before this incident occurred.

“A sum of money was put into the budget for the next financial year which, subject to ratification by full council, will go towards providing CCTV for the High Street, Wey Hill and Beacon Hill.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting crime reference number PR/45180116510, or they can call Crimestoppers, anonymously and free if they wish, on 0800 555111.