YOBS who went on a wrecking spree at a school caused thousands of pounds of damage.

The gang went on the rampage at Rainham School for Girls smashing eight skylights and the windows of a minibus parked in the netball centre.

The vandals, who were caught on CCTV, continued their smashing spree by breaking into a mobile classroom and setting light to a heap of paper.

But firefighters, who were alerted to the scene by a passer-by, arrived in the nick of time and stopped the fire from spreading.

Andy Worcester, assistant head teacher of the secondary school, in Derwent Way, said: "When we spoke to the police we came up with a £3,000 figure, but other things weren't accounted for, so it will be more than that.

"Everyone is getting on as best they can, but we have had to cancel lunchtimes trips because of the damage to the minibus. There were a few other incidents last week. We had a few windows smashed, as did the Howard School, but it was minor compared to this."

The biggest disruption was the damage to the minibus which ferries pupils in from Wakely Junior and Deanwood Primary schools to use the facilities. It is anticipated these exchange lessons will have to be postponed until some time next week.

The CCTV footage has been handed over to the police who are now investigating the vandalism. Anyone with information should contact Medway Police on 01634 884252.