Thieves have stolen a shed from a primary school that was full of the children’s tools for tending their eco garden.

The wooden shed, 8ft by 6ft, was taken from the grounds of Knockhill Primary School in Eynsford Road, Greenhithe, sometime between 8pm Friday and 10am on Monday.

Inside, as well as the youngsters’ gardening equipment, was a barbecue belonging to the parents’ association and a leaf blower.

Sarah Steven, from the school, said: “The children were extremely upset to arrive at school on Monday and find a shed containing their resources had been stolen from the planned eco area.

"It’s devastating. It was a really nice wooden shed, which was next to a pond where we were creating an eco garden. It was going to be a little woodland. Some of the children live in flats so don’t have gardens and this was their only gardening experience.

“It’s disappointing for the children to think people have come into their school when they weren’t there and done this. This is a school – who does this?

"Every member of staff at Knockhall, and within the Woodland Academy Trust, is working extremely hard to improve the school for the benefit of the children.

"Let us hope that those who committed this criminal and thoughtless act have a need which is greater than those of our children."

A fence and locks on other sheds were also damaged by the thieves.

Staff are still working out how much the stolen items were worth but fear it might not be worth claiming on the school’s insurance.

Ms Steve continued: “The parents’ association will try to raise some money but we’re hoping a local company might be able to donate a shed or some equipment for the children.”

Anyone with information can call 01474 366149 quoting reference XY/7742/17 or call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

To offer a donation call Sarah Steven on 01322 334 638 or email ssteven@nhp.bexley.sch.uk