A red Renault Clio crashed into a Jewish cemetery in Hertfordshire in the early hours of Wednesday, causing "distressing" damage to nine headstones.

United Synagogue said the damage caused was worth around £15,000.

An 18-year-old motorist was taken to hospital with slight injuries after his red Renault Clio entered the Bushey Old Jewish Cemetery, Hertfordshire Constabulary said.

Melvyn Hartog, United Synagogue’s head of burial, said he was helping police with their enquiries.

“The damage caused by the car to a number of gravestones at Bushey Jewish Cemetery is very distressing. Each grave is the final resting place of one of our members and we have begun alerting relatives. We will work closely with them to ensure that the graves of their loved ones are repaired promptly.

“We understand from the police that a drunk driver hit the curb at speed and rolled into the cemetery. This is a shocking incident and we are supporting the families affected," he said. 

The force is investigating the collision and appealing for witnesses to come forward.

“Obviously seeing the significant damage to the gravestones will of course be of concern to the Jewish community, and cause distress to those who are directly affected by the damage,” said Safer Neighbourhood Inspector Rachael Robertson.

“We are liaising with the cemetery to inform them of the circumstances surrounding the incident,” she added. 

To report information, call the non-emergency number 101, quoting ISR 16 of 21 April or visit www.herts.police.uk/Report/Report.