A SPATE of break-ins at Darlington schools has sparked an appeal from police.

Officers want anyone with information to get in touch in a bid to stamp out the problem.

Primary schools have been targeted by gangs of young burglars.

Since the start of last week, there have been five raids and police think the same gang is responsible.

Schools which have been hit include Mowden Junior, North Road Primary and Alderman Leach Primary. Items taken have included laptop computers and music equipment.

Alderman Leach head teacher Catherine Thompson said: "This is all upsetting for staff and children.

"It is getting tedious as nothing seems to put these youths off at all and it is affecting the whole community."

Darlington Borough Council said incidents at schools always increased with the onset of darker nights.

The authority is planning to put more grilles on windows and anti-climb paint on drainpipes.

Insp Billy Hugill of Darlington police said the problem was beginning to escalate.

"It shows there is more crime committed on dark nights," he said. "It is because they know they can get away with it and that they won't be moved on.

"But such wanton vandalism affects both teachers and pupils."

Insp Hugill thanked people ho had called with information and urged anyone seeing anything suspicious to ring the police.

The number for information is 01325 467681.