Police are helping schools in Highbridge to tighten up their security after three separate incidents in a fortnight where criminal damage has been caused and property stolen, police said on Wednesday morning (November 22nd).
At Beechfield Infants School (pictured) and Highbridge Nursery a shed was damaged beyond repair, toys and equipment taken, and a number of windows were smashed.
Head Sheelagh Aslett said: “We are disappointed that the youngest members of our community have been targeted in this manner. The children have found it very difficult to understand why anyone would want to damage their toys and equipment.”
St John’s School in Highbridge (pictured below) was also broken into and equipment was stolen. As a result, teachers are unable to use the smart board in one of the classrooms, having an impact on lessons.
Head David Penney said: “I regret that local children in Highbridge are being robbed by actions such as these. Highbridge is a wonderfully generous and supportive community and it is a shame that the few cause problems for others”.
Burnham-based PS Ian Kennett is now working with the schools in the hope of preventing further incidents.
He said: “This is an important issue where the community can play a positive part in helping to safeguard their children’s interests. Any money spent on repairing damage caused by criminals cannot be spent on children’s education.”
“If anyone has any information that might help police enquiries it is in the interests of everyone to report it.”
PS Kennett added: “I would ask that the local community support the police and their local schools in helping to stop this from happening and by giving any information that would help catch those responsible.
“They can help by contacting their local Neighbourhood Police Officer PC Gwilym Starks, or any school staff and by reporting anyone seen on school property out of hours.
“The police are working closely with local schools and in addition to extra patrols being carried out, other security measures are being looked at.”
