TOWIE star's nightmare

New salon 'petrol bombed' after being open just 24 hours...

11:28 17 February 2012

Lauren Goodger, star of The Only Way is Essex has spoken of her devastation after vandals burnt down her new shop.

The shop, Lauren's Way, was allegedly attacked with petrol bombs on 15 February, less than 24 hours after it opened.

Speaking to The Mirror, Goodger said:

"I didn't realise there were so many nasty and bitter people out there.

"I'm just glad that no-one was in the shop at the time. I feel awful for the people with young families who live in the flats above. Nobody deserves this for just being on a TV show."

Goodger also took to Twitter to share her thanks, posting:

"What a crazy 24hrs... want 2say BIG thank u 2family,friends & colleagues &specially u guys on here 4 ur support.Means a lot & I'm so touched (sic).

"As one door closes another one opens..You can't predict your future but u can change the path u want to go!! Think I'm ready turn my page..."

Sources have suggested that the boutique, which was also egged on the eve of its launch, may be permanently closed down due to fear of repeat attacks.

A source reportedly told the newspaper:

"Lauren had windows egged and one was broken. She was really upset but just put it down to kids being silly.

"Now the landlord is not sure whether she wants to continue having Lauren's Way at the premises."

A police investigation into the attack is underway.