Eighth break-in at primary school

A Northampton primary school is trying to find ways to keep out criminals after a spate of break-ins.

The latest incident is the eighth in six months at Briar Hill Primary School where head Cath Keohane said she was becoming increasingly concerned.

Doors and windows have been smashed, laptops stolen and on one occasion a vehicle was taken from the car park.

A security fence has been vandalised and the school is now considering extra measures to keep out criminals.

The latest break-in comes as Northamptonshire Police appeal to people living near to schools to keep an eye on the empty premises over the Easter holidays.

It follows a rise in the number of schools being targeted by vandals and arsonists when they are empty, with head teachers having to spend their budgets on security measures such as CCTV and fencing.