Pupils upset after vandals trash pond

11:02am Thursday 8th May 2008

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YOUNGSTERS have been left devastated after thieves broke into a Basingstoke school and trashed their pond, killing many of the fish.

Teachers and pupils arrived at Merton Infant School in Romsey Close, Popley, Basingstoke, to find the metal cover for the pond had been ripped off and the brick-work had also been damaged.

One member of staff found a fish left by the side of the pond gasping for air, but fortunately it survived after being quickly returned to the water.

The incident happened some time during the last weekend of April, and it is believed the culprits broke in by jumping over the school's roof.

It is hoped the callous raid-ers were captured on the school's CCTV and this is now being passed to the police.

Access to the school's garden, where the pond is situated, is restricted while the area is tidied up.

Headteacher Larissa James, 35, said: "Quite a few of the fish have been taken, we're not sure how many, as some of them are still spooked and haven't come to the surface.

"Thankfully, the fish that was left by the side is showing signs of recovering, but it's a wonder it's still alive. It could have been there a long time.

"We'd really like to see whoever is responsible for this caught and punished. The pond is much-loved by all the pupils at the school and they have been left very upset."

In another blow, the school also discovered five bicycles were stolen last weekend.

Peter Edney, media and corporate communications officer for the North and East Hampshire operational command unit of Hampshire constabulary, said: "We're looking into both incidents and would like any witnesses who saw anything suspicious to report to police."

Anyone with information should contact Basingstoke police station on 0845 045 4545 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.