THE headteacher of a school repeatedly targeted by vandals says staff will not give in to those responsible.

Three windows at Alderman Leach Primary School, in Darlington, were smashed overnight on Monday.

Headteacher Catherine Thompson feels sterner sentences would deter the culprits who are continually vandalising the school.

"I would like to see the punishment fitting the crime, so these thugs don't feel they can always get away with breaking people's windows with no consequences, which seems to be what's happening now," she said.

"This is constantly spoiling it for the children at the school and it's not fair. But we won't be beaten by these mindless vandals."

The latest incident is part of an ongoing problem with vandalism at the school.

Mrs Thompson said that on Monday evening about 30 teenagers were seen drinking alcohol on the school field.

"At the moment we are really suffering badly with vandalism," she said.

"The last lot of repairs we had done cost £1,700, and this latest damage could cost something similar.

"It seems as if since we announced we are moving schools to a new building on West Park in Faverdale, we have been targeted. But we won't be moving until February."

Anyone with information about the vandalism at the school, in Stooperdale Avenue, is asked to call Darlington police on (01325) 467681.