Schools left flooded after spate of lead thefts

Schools have been left with flooded classrooms and leaky ceilings following a spate of lead thefts that exposed the buildings to the wettest winter in 100 years.

Four schools and a college have been targeted in a two-month spree at a time when persistent downpours have left swathes of the country under water – including parts of Kingston. St Andrew’s and St Mark’s Primary School and next-door neighbours Maple Infants in Surbiton became the latest victims when thieves stripped the schools’ shared roof in the early hours of February 1 and February 3.

It follows similar raids on Dysart School in Ewell Road, Surbiton, on January 24 and Hillcroft College in South Bank, Surbiton, on January 17. St Luke’s School in Acre Road, Kingston, was left with soggy corridors after £15,000 worth of lead was stolen in the first week of the new year. As most school insurance policies do not cover lead theft, it also means thousands of pounds that would otherwise go on children’s education will instead be spent on repairing the damage.

Chief Inspector Gary Taylor, from Kingston Police, said: “I would urge anyone who may have witnessed any of these thefts or has any information that may help with these investigations to contact police on 101 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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