An appeal has been launched after a North East school sustained serious damage due to vandalism last month.

Thornaby Academy suffered £40,000 worth of damage after youths climbed onto the school's roof, before destroying vents, an air handling unit controlling gas for the kitchen, and a hot water boiler.

The incident is believed to have taken place between the evenings of Friday, June 23 and Sunday. June 25.

The school's kitchen was forced to close and some classrooms suffered flood damage, and police are now appealing to the public for more information.

Investigating Officer, PC Katie Lister said: “There is a serious risk of serious injury or death being caused to those climbing on the building due to numerous hazards including electric shock.

“If anyone has information about these incidents they can contact 101 or Thornaby Academy.

"If anyone is seen trespassing or climbing on buildings, please contact police on 999.”

Please contact PC Lister with any information on 101, quoting reference number 124590.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.