A PERSISTENT problem with vandalism at a South Ayrshire School has prompted a crackdown on the problem in Prestwick. 

There have been ongoing issues in the grounds of Glenburn Primary at night, with public repair costs creeping ever higher.

Smashed windows, broken bottles, burned bins and anti-social behaviour have all been recorded in the grounds in recent months. The school has now approached Police Scotland for a greater focus on the area at night, while South Ayrshire Council has been going door-to-door to ask neighbours to report unruly behaviour as soon as they see it.

A temporary CCTV system is being installed at the school this year which it is hoped will also act as a deterrent and keep people away from the grounds. The damage is causing disruption to education as repairs are fixed, a situation which also carries unnecessary costs.

Head teacher at Glenburn Primary, Linda Cairns, said that although the school was a fantastic place to learn, they were having issues with weekend vandalism.

She said: “In the latest incident a great deal of broken glass was left in the playground, and we had to bring the children into school as they arrived in order to avoid any accidents.

“It took our school janitor and three school assistants all morning to make the playground safe for the children to play in when they should have been free to support the children in classes.

“I would ask that if anyone sees people in the grounds at night to contact the Police immediately.”