VANDALS went on a window smashing spree at a school causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

One window at St Nicholas and St Lawrence Primary School in Broadwey, Weymouth, was hit with such force that shards of glass were sent flying across a classroom, forcing teachers to close it for the day.

Classes continued in the library while the damage was repaired. Headteacher Maureen Jaques says she was saddened by the attack, which police believe was carried out over the weekend.

The window of a side door was smashed in while four large double-glazed panes were damaged.

Arsonists struck at the school in December causing some damage and forcing the school to close for the day.

It prompted education chiefs to investigate tightening up security at the school.

Maureen Jaques said it was a fairly open site and children enjoyed access to the school field out of hours.

She said: "It is very sad that something like this should happen. It is especially unfortunate seeing as how we had a good Ofsted report in March which praised the quality of the buildings.

"The window of a side door was smashed so hard that we found glass on the other side of the room. The class was closed for the day and children were taught in the library."

Miss Jaques added: "Children enjoy free access to the field when the school is closed but it very disappointing that some choose to spend their time causing damage."

Police would like to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious at the school over the weekend.

They are also asking people to report suspicious activity at Wyke Regis Junior School where damage has been caused in the past.

PC Rick O'Shea of Weymouth police said: "These mindless idiots think they're being clever but they can be arrested for criminal damage.

"At St Nicholas classes were disrupted and money that would normally be spent on educating children was used to repair the damage."

Anyone with information should contact police on (01305) 767474.