Police warning over school vandalism

An increase in vandalism incidents has been reported

Children are being warned to stay away from school premises during the summer holidays.

It follows an increase in vandalism and graffiti at primary and secondary schools across the Richmond and Catterick areas of North Yorkshire.

Police say one senior school has suffered over £2,000 of criminal damage to windows in the last two weeks.

The initiative to stop children trespassing over the summer will include high profile uniformed police patrols.

Parents are asked to play their part by speaking to their children about staying away from school premises outside school hours.

Pc Gary Lewis, a youth action officer, said: "Schools are working hard to overcome this problem and we are supporting their efforts all the way.

"It is hoped that these efforts will greatly reduce the number of reported incidents at school sites over the summer holidays to ensure young people's safety and to prevent criminal damage and nuisance behaviour."