POLICE are appealing for witnesses after £10,000 worth of garden play equipment was stolen from a Kent school.

Intruders entered the grounds of the Vernon Holme junior and infants school at Kent College in Harbledown, near Canterbury, on Tuesday night. They damaged a fence getting in.

The play equipment was made of stainless steel and a large van or lorry would have been needed to remove the equipment.

Sgt Jon Leslie said: “This is a particularly mean-spirited crime and a terrible Christmas present for the children.

"The equipment was about to be assembled for use and now they will be unable to enjoy it. We urge anyone who saw anything suspicious last night to let us know.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222178 and quote ref 11033, or call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 500 111 where calls are free and you do not have to give your name.