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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Matt Bryan

Police probe after vandalism of Lanarkshire school playgrounds

Police are continuing to probe a vandalism spree at a number of Lanarkshire schools.

Mindless yobs destroyed wooden huts used to teach children at St Elizabeth's Primary in Hamilton last week.

It comes as cops launched another appeal over a series of similar incidents including numerous damaged items in the playground of High Blantyre Primary, and a deliberate fire at Cathkin Primary.

A community officer has called the reckless act "disappointing", with the damage set to cost a substantial amount to repair.

The wooden huts were left wrecked at the school (Lanarkshire Live)

Sgt Billy Sloan, community sergeant at Hamilton, told Lanarkshire Live today: “It is very disappointing that these huts have been vandalised.

"The cost to repair will be a substantial burden on South Lanarkshire Council who we have been liaising with. It also deprives the young children the ability to use this facility.

“If you have any information on the vandalism, please call officers via 101 quoting reference number 1188 of Thursday 14 July 2022. You can also provide details anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

And Lynn Sherry, head of education at South Lanarkshire Council, added: “The damage caused to this unique resource for pupils at St Elizabeth’s is significant, and we wholeheartedly condemn such mindless vandalism.

"We are working closely with the council’s security manager and the police to make sure the site is secure and would urge anyone who might have information that could lead to those responsible to contact Police Scotland in the usual ways.”

The vandals also trashed the inside of the huts at St Elizabeth's Primary (Lanarkshire Live)

It's understood the vandalism at St Elizabeth's happened between July 7 and 14, meanwhile the incident at High Blantyre is said to have taken place between July 11 and 13.

And on July 15, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was called to a deliberate fire which had been set in the playground of Cathkin Primary in Rutherglen. Firefighters had to break open the gates to get access to the fire.

Police launched an appeal over the incidents and are asking witnesses or those with information to come forward.

Locals have also vented their frustration over the vandalism spree.

Commenting on a post about the damage online, one furious local wrote: "Despicable.

"Staff spend countless hours to make outdoor spaces inviting for children and not to mention the money - it's an absolute shame for the children that attend."

Another wrote: "So sad. Hope the community come together and rebuild. Why are our schools not covered by CCTV for safety and security?"

Anyone with any information should contact police on 101.

Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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