Vandals inflicted thousands of pounds of damage to a Dundee primary school, devastating pupils by stealing their new laptop computer and shattering window panes.
The yobs set fire to the assembly hall curtains and stray-painted the roof at St Lukes and St Matthews Primary School.
Police are appealing for information to track down those responsible for the wrecking spree, which happened between 4.30pm on Saturday and 8.30am on Monday.
Headteacher Neil Lowden said: “It is very disappointing that someone has damaged the children’s learning in this way.
“Altogether there are 14 window panes broken, which will cost an estimated £2000 to repair.
“It looks like the people responsible broke in through the windows in the assembly hall and set the curtain on fire.
“The laptop was new — we only got it on Thursday with money raised from the children’s school pictures. It was to help with learning during assembly and the children are obviously upset.
“They know something bad has happened as they weren’t allowed into the area where the windows were damaged.”
Mr Lowden explained the school had been targeted regularly during the summer holidays, especially the windows, but the weekend vandalism was the worst incident yet.
He added the council has had extra measures put in to protect the school and that Police Scotland have been proactive too.
Children and families service committee convener Councillor Stewart Hunter said: “It is a small minority of people who commit this type of crime, which can be upsetting and disruptive to children’s education.
“Vandalism should not be tolerated and I would always urge people to report any acts of vandalism to Police Scotland on 101.”
A Police Scotland spokesman urged anyone with information to get in touch.
He said: “Vandals spray-painted graffiti on the roof, broke several windows and stole a laptop in the incident.
“Anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity or anyone who knows the individuals responsible should contact Police Scotland on 101.
“If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org“.
