STAFF at a cash-strapped playgroup targeted by vandals believe the damage was caused by youngsters who once used the facility.

Yobs smashed every pane of glass at Tanfield Lea Playgroup and Toddlers, based in the Old Junior School, Tanfield Lea, near Stanley.

Jean Cranna, playgroup leader, said: "It is such a shame. We have been told it was done by young children, which means they are probably children that we have had through the playgroup.

"For the sake of boredom, they have spoiled the chance for other children to enjoy the facilities that they themselves enjoyed when they were young."

The vandals struck during the October half term holidays, smashing 15 windows. Distraught staff only uncovered the damage when they arrived back for work the following week.

The centre, which is used by more than 30 children and their parents, had to close for two days while staff combed the rooms for dangerous shards of glass.

"The caretaker did a marvellous job clearing up most of it, but glass gets everywhere," said Ms Cranna.

"We had to empty 300 balls out of the ball pool to sweep it all up and go through every tray full of toys."

The play area at Tanfield Junior School next door was also targeted.

Acting headteacher Ann Kane said: "They have hacked chunks out of the log play area, which was upsetting because the children themselves raised the money to pay for it."

The playgroup operates on a shoestring. In March this year, it was threatened with closure before the Lloyds TSB Foundation stepped in with a £2,750 grant towards running costs.

While the windows have been securely boarded up, the group cannot afford the hundreds of pounds needed to replace the glass.

"We are just a small group and we don't have the cash for repairs," said Ms Cranna.

Last year, a local woodcraft group raised the cash after a similar attack. The group is appealing for donations to help restore the windows.

Anyone who can help should contact Tanfield Junior School on (01207) 232815.