A headmistress has said money that could be spent on her pupils is having to be used for repairs after break-ins.

Would-be burglars struck again over the weekend, entering a shed at Oakwood Infants School, Windsor Avenue, Clacton.

Despite nothing being taken, headmistress Lesley Trotter said the incident would still cost the school.

She said any burglary, however minor, would have an impact on children at the school as money that could have been used for the children instead had to go on repairs.

Since September the school has had windows smashed and equipment taken from a shed, and each time the school is having to use money from its budget for repairs.

Miss Trotter said: "We had a series of incidents when windows were broken and one incident where the shed was broken into and some equipment was taken."

So far Miss Trotter estimates the cost to the school has been about £500.

The cost of replacing a window is about £100.

Miss Trotter said: "One hundred pounds could buy ten books, a bike for the nursery, enough Lego for a class.

"I have talked to the children in assembly about how sad it is that people don't value the building in the way that we do. The children really value the building and look after it well. It's really sad when someone comes in and spoils it for them."

Anyone with information is asked to call Clacton police on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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