PSNI in call for School Watch support

Michelle Wilson, Crime Prevention Officer, explained: “Attacks on schools generally range from broken windows and graffiti but on some occasions have been more serious including arson attacks and burglaries.

“It is frustrating to see how these mindless acts affect a school and in turn affect the whole community. No one wants to see teachers and pupils return to a school which has been vandalised over the summer holidays and I would urge members of the public to assist police in reducing this type of crime.

“The impact of criminal damage can have a detrimental effect on schools. Funding which could be spent on much needed school resources to provide a better education for children such as books and computers, has to be spent on repairing the damage instead.

Police would advise anyone who sees anything unusual or anyone acting suspiciously 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.