A SCHOOL has been forced to spend thousands of pounds on repairs after its roof was vandalised for the third time in six weeks.

Staff and pupils at St Bede's RC Primary School, in Kingsway, Darlington, said they were angry when they discovered the damage yesterday morning, which left a hole in the roof.

Youths are often seen climbing onto the school roof and have been seen throwing tiles into the school pond and damaging the guttering.

Although the school stayed open yesterday, parts of the infant school were closed, and electricity could not be supplied to the toilets because of the rain coming through the roof.

Headteacher Clare Taylor said: "This is becoming a regular occurrence; the caretaker is now starting to dread coming in on a Monday morning.

"The infant school has been affected this time and it's been very upsetting for them, as it would be if their homes were damaged in this way.

"Our school is in quite an isolated place and it's easy to climb onto the roof at the back, but it will cost thousands of pounds to get security measures.

"Money that would be spent on the school and the children is being wasted through these constant repairs."

Police Inspector Sue Collingwood said police were aware of groups of youths gathering around the premises. "I am sure some of these youths are known to people in the area, and if so, we would urge them to contact us."

Anyone who can help can call 0845 606 0365.