RESIDENTS are being reminded to watch out for any suspicious activity on school grounds during the summer holidays.

The fresh appeal comes from the police after Whinfield Junior School, in Jesmond Road, Darlington, was broken into over the bank holiday weekend. Offenders tried to break down the door sometime on Sunday night, but appear to have fled empty handed.

Steve Steen, acting Inspector for Darlington police, said: "Over recent weeks we have had reports of break-ins in schools. In most cases, it appears overhead projectors are being stolen and we think they are being passed on to children so they can play console games on the wall.

"In this incident, however, nothing was stolen. It would seem the offenders have been trying to break down the paneling of the door, but something has scared them off during the act."

School break-ins during the summer holidays can lead to thousands of pounds being spent replacing broken windows and doors, as well as to replace the stolen equipment.

Witnesses area asked to call police on 0845 606 0365.