PARIS, January 1 (RIA Novosti) - Vandals burned down 372 cars in France, or about the same number as last year, French news radio France Info said on Tuesday citing police sources.

Vandalism ahead of and during big holidays has become a bad tradition in France in the past few years. However, police said last night was relatively quiet, with 259 people arrested for hooliganism and 4 policemen receiving light injuries.

"Globally, last night was relatively calm, without any serious incidents. There were few clashes with police while tension in troubled neighborhoods was considerably less pronounced than in previous years," police said.

A total of about 25,000 policemen, including 4,500 in Paris, were on duty on the New Year night across the country to ensure law and order.