PICTURES: Police confirm investigation after 'demolition derby' wrecking spree at Sheffield lorry yard

Vandals smashed their way into the R Cox Haulage Ltd yard in Darnall before stealing keys and driving vehicles into one another, buildings and a gate leaving the place a scene of carnage.

It is also thought the yobs drank beer while carrying out the attack as empty cans were left strewn across the yard.

South Yorkshire Police confirmed today they are investigating the incident.

A spokesperson said: "An investigation is underway into an arson attack at R Cox Haulage Ltd. At around 12.10am on Friday, April 13, officers received reports of a fire at the above location.

"On arrival, officers found that extensive damage had been caused to Portacabins on site as well as several vehicles and gates. A number of items were also stolen during the incident.

"The fire is being treated as deliberate and officers have launched an investigation – including reviewing CCTV."

The transport company has been operating in Sheffield for almost a century but there are now fears that the firm may have to close resulting in job losses.

Company owner Robert Rounce was on a family holiday in Tenerife when he received a call late at night to say that his business was on fire.

He said: "We had just gotten in from a night out when I got the call. I couldn't believe it.

"The people responsible for this sheer act of nastiness are cruel excuses for human beings.

"We are all truly gutted."

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He said it appeared yobs had "proceeded to play what can only be described as demolition derby using lorries, pick ups and vans" and described the state of the yard as "carnage."

It is believed they broke into the site through a fence at about 8pm at around the time when CCTV suddenly stopped working.

They broke into the firm's main office and stole keys to the vehicles.