Schools vandalised as police warn people to keep watch

Some time between Friday June 15 and this morning, Monday June 18 a number of windows were broken at Banbridge Academy.

The estimated value of the damage is approximately £2,000.

Some time in the same period a quantity of lead was also stolen from a school in the Newry Road area of Banbridge, thought to be Abercorn PS..

Police said: “Each year schools spend much-needed money repairing or replacing damaged or stolen property as a result of burglary and vandalism. This diverts funding away from valuable school projects and can impact on the positive learning experiences of pupils.

“Schools can be vulnerable to criminals at night, weekends and during holiday periods.

“Do you live near or overlook a school? Do you walk/drive past a school? If the answer to either question is yes, you can help.

“Take a few seconds to look at the school. If it is outside normal school hours and you see activity in the grounds or around buildings, ask yourself: Who is there? Why are they there? What are they doing?

“If it seems suspicious, do not delay, telephone 0845 600 8000 and ask for your local police station.

“If you have concerns or any issues that you wish to discuss with police directly, the mobile number of your neighbourhood officer can be found on the polcie website, www.psni.police.uk

“By looking out for schools, you can help protect them from criminals, and help the schools save money. Don’t let Vandals wreck our schools, or the futures of their pupils.”

Police would ask anyone who witnessed either of these incidents or anyone who has any information to contact them at Banbridge on 0845 600 8000. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.