A SCHOOL was forced to hire private security after vandals targeted it over the half-term break causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Mindless yobs, believed to be local youths, went on the rampage at Queensbridge Primary School in Farnworth twice over the holiday — leaving the school no choice but to enlist the help of private security to patrol the school grounds for the remainder of the half-term holiday.

The vandals, thought to be local youths, caused £8,000 worth of damage after forcing their way into the school grounds by clambering a security fence and climbing the school building smashing skylights and solar panels.

They also destroyed play equipment for the school's youngest children, including school benches, and a large wooden house.

Queensbridge Primary School, which is rated good by Ofsted, was targeted on Sunday night and then again overnight Tuesday and Wednesday. The caretaker discovered the damage.

Headteacher Karen Fox said: "Thousands of pounds worth of damage been caused.

"Some of the damage, including that to windows, will not be covered by the insurance.

"The children are quite upset and some are quite angry at what has happened. It is very difficult, but the class teachers told the children in an age appropriate way."

She added: "I am disappointed, the actions of the vandals have taken away money from the children, especially as budgets are decreasing and every penny counts.

"The money which should have been spent on their education is now going to make good this damage."

Queensbridge Primary School moved into a new building in 2005, and had CCTV cameras, but they were stolen, and replacement cameras were also stolen and have not been replaced.

Mrs Fox said: "After the second vandal attack we paid for private security patrols because it seemed to be escalating to cover the rest of the holidays."

She added: "If anyone has seen anything please contact the school or the police or if anyone sees people trespassing on school grounds please contact the police.

"The school plays an important role in the community."

Police say they are investigating the vandal attacks.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police Bolton South division said: "Over £8,000 of damage has been caused to Queensbridge Primary School, St Germain Street, Farnworth.

"Over the last week offenders are believed to be local youths they have scaled the perimeter fence and entered the school grounds.

"Once inside the grounds the offenders have climbed on to the roof and smashed a number of skylights and solar panels and also smashed a large wooden 'Wendy' house in the infants play area.

"We would like to hear from any residents who may have witnessed this damage taking place or know who is responsible for the damage."