10/04/2006

Primary school closed after vandalism

An east Belfast primary school has been forced to close until tomorrow, following an attack by vandals at the weekend.

It is understood that a gang of youths broke into an art room at the Strandtown Primary School, on the North Road area of the city, at around 10.30pm on Saturday and went on a drunken rampage.

The vandals caused substantial damage to 17 classrooms and an office by breaking over a dozen windows and throwing a quantity of paint during the incident.

A number of pictures, books and computers were also damaged during the attack.

Acting principal Fiona McArthur today said that over 1,000 pupils would have to remain at home until tomorrow while the damage is cleared up.

She said that this type of behaviour knocks the heart out of all the good work that's going on for young people and the opportunities that schools are trying to provide.

Police have appealed for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any information relating to it, to contact them on 0845 600 8000, or on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.

(EF/SP)

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