Police make School Watch appeal ahead of summer holidays

Local Commander Chief Inspector Nicky Thompson called on the local community to help the police prevent vandalism and bring vandals to task.

Chief Inspector Thompson said, “Attacks on schools generally range from broken windows and graffiti but on some occasions have been more serious including arson and burglary.

“Vandalism is disheartening and it is frustrating to see how these mindless acts affect schools that have worked hard to maintain buildings and create a safe environment for pupils throughout the whole year. This in turn has a really negative effect on the entire community and I would ask members of the public to assist police in reducing this type of crime. No one wants to see teachers and pupils return to a school which has been vandalised or to come in over the summer to clear up after criminals.”

* If you see anything unusual or anyone acting suspiciously on school premises after hours or during holidays to telephone police on 0845 600 8000 or in an emergency dial 999 and ask for the service you require. Alternatively information about crime can be passed to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.