Children arrived at school to find their library had been torn apart and their favourite books had been stolen.

Three thieves targeted Cedar Children’s Academy, in Cedar Road, Strood, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

They trashed the school’s library and stole £700 of children’s story books.

Office manager Georgia Randall said: “There were three male youths, all with hoods up and faces hidden.

“They stole cushions which were custom made for the children to get comfy on and £700 worth of books.

“We’ve had been fundraising, with a book sale and the children did a sponsored read and get donations from friends and family.

“Then we went out and bought books which we thought the children would really engage with.

“It’s such a shame, they stole two sets of the Harry Potter books, a Michael Morpurgo set, a Jaqueline Wilson set. Just all the books that children love. It’s devastating.

“We worked really hard on the library over summer, the teachers gave up their time to paint a mural of Doctor Seuss characters.

“It is really horrible to see it like this. A lot of children use it as a safe space to relax and have a quiet read - it definitely doesn’t look safe today.”

Some pupils were allowed into the library and were upset at what they saw. Year 4 pupil Ronnie said: “Why has this happened to us? This is our library!”

Seven-year-old pupil Landon also found a beer bottle discarded on the floor.

A petrol strimmer, and other gardening equipment was also stolen, so work on the school pond cannot be completed.

Mrs Randall added: “The children were really excited to go to the pond and now they won’t be able to learn about the wildlife.”

The school posted on Facebook about the break-in and were inundated with replies of anger and sympathy.

Many of the parents have donated books to replenish the library.

Mrs Randall said: “Our parent community has been absolutely amazing.

"We want to say a massive thank you. Any book donations would be hugely appreciated.”

Police spokesman James Walker said: “Police are investigating a report that the Cedar Children’s Academy, in Cedar Road, Strood, was burgled between 1.15am and 4am on Saturday, May 18, 2019.

“At present no suspects have been identified and inquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing.”

Anyone with information can call police on 01634 792209 quoting 46/95932/19, alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Read more: All the latest news from Medway