A primary school's major fund-raising event has been hit by thieves who wiped out weeks of hard work by pupils and parents.

The thieves broke into a shed at Newlands Spring primary school in Copperfield Road, Chelmsford, and stole hundreds of bottles, sweets and lucky dip prizes for the school's June sale later this month.

The children had contributed the goods as payment for non-uniform days and other events.

Stephanie Matthews, secretary of the PTA, said another appeal was going out to parents to help and it was hoped local supermarkets might step in with donations.

Geoff Roser, headteacher, said: "I was very upset and all those connected with the school are very upset.

"The stuff that was taken was entirely collected by the children and it is upsetting to think that someone could take that knowing what it was."

The sale is aimed at raising funds for a gazebo in the school's grounds which can also be used as an outdoor classroom.

Published Friday, June 13, 2003

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