VANDALS have targeted a school twice in one week - stealing laptops, smashing windows and damaging equipment.

Police have launched an investigation after an incident of burglary at Sir John Barrow School in Ulverston.

Entry was gained to the school through smashed windows on Sunday evening at around 7.40pm in which damage was caused to several classrooms.

Headteacher Helen Pearson described the break-in as ‘upsetting’ and is urging the public to help track down the perpetrators.

She said: “Sadly the school had been broken into. This is the second break in over the holidays. The first took place on New Years’s Day.

“This involved access in to the Year 2 classroom through the outside doors. It was a fairly clean break in and the school lost a laptop. Little damage was done. The break in on Sunday caused a lot more damage.

“Intruders had accessed the back of the building breaking windows into the Year 1 classroom, breakfast room and SENCo room.

“There are a few missing laptops but generally it appears to be vandalism - tables and chairs tipped upside down, a fridge thrown over, damaged white board, broken glass, cleaning products sprayed around surfaces and walls.

“It is upsetting when this happens at a any time to anyone. It is particularly upsetting when it is aimed at a school - our children and at this time when everyone is rallying to support each other in the community.

“If you have any information which could help track the perpetrators please let us know or contact Cumbria Police on 101.

“We, amongst other things, are seeking to put the areas affected back together.

“During these times you also see the best in people and I cannot thank enough those who have responded and come to our aid so quickly - police, security team, builders.

“I am also thankful that all the damaged items can be replaced and no one has been hurt.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact PC 2772 on 101.