A SCHOOL was left reeling after thieves struck three times in less than 36 hours last week — stealing £1,400 of electrical goods.

An iPad worth £400 was taken from Canon Slade School between 4pm on December 8 and 10pm on December 9.

The iPad, which was subsequently found dumped in the road on Thursday, was in an unlocked room at the time of the theft.

A blue coat was also stolen from a changing room on Monday last week, with the thief caught on CCTV leaving the building.

Then at 2am on Wednesday, thieves smashed a window at the back of the Bradshaw Brow school with a brick to gain entry to the building. They then stole £1,000 of computer equipment.

Two men from Breightmet, aged 28 and 33, have been arrested on suspicion of theft.

They have been bailed until January 19 as police continue their investigation.

A police spokesman said: "We need the help of the good people of Bromley Cross and Bradshaw.

"Did you or your friend have to leave school on Monday without a blue coat?

"Please get in touch with us if this is yours."

Police believe the coat may have been taken with other items hidden underneath it.

The iPad was found dumped in Tonge Moor Road and was handed in to the police on December 11.

Police were able to match the device to the iPad stolen from Canon Slade by checking the serial number.

Crime scene investigation officers were called and the iPad was dusted for fingerprints.

The police spokesman added: "Thanks to the member of the public for handing in the iPad. We may have a lead to catch the thief.

"If you do find property on the street, please hand it in. By keeping the property, you are actually committing the offence of theft by finding.

"As well as this, the property could be stolen goods and could be the missing piece to an investigation."

The school declined to comment on the thefts.

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