Vandals caused £1,000 damage to a school by firing air pellets through the windows.

The late-night wrecking spree smashed six windows at Northlands infants school in Winifred Road, Pitsea.

It comes just days after a spate of vandalism caused £1,000 damage at Moat House special school in Basildon and is one of a catalogue of criminal damage incidents being investigated by police.

Each year tens of thousands of pounds of damage is caused to buildings and equipment at schools in the town.

Many headteachers now view it as "one of those things".

Speaking about the latest vandalism at Northlands school, headteacher Ann Stewart said: "It is something we experience from time to time.

"We are insured against the damage but do have to pay the first £200."

Anyone with information should contact Basildon police on 01268 532212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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