Despite pleas by police for a close watch to be kept on schools throughout the Easter holidays, because they were prime targets for thieves and vandals, Liskeard school and community college suffered a theft during the recent holiday period.

Robbers took advantage of the two and a half week break to force their way into a temporary classroom at the school, and then escape with a haul of high tech equipment which is used by pupils, and is said to total £4,200.

Police say that it has been established that the break-in occurred between 3.30pm on Thursday April 20 and noon on Wednesday April 26. However, they have added that it is most likely to have taken place overnight on Tuesday April 25.

They explained that the temporary classroom's main doors were forced to gain entry, and a number of computers, a colour television, a video and a microwave oven were taken.

The police have appealed for anyone offered such items cheaply to contact them, and they would also like to hear from anyone who heard or saw anything unusual at the school on, or between, the necessary dates.

The police at Liskeard can be reached by telephoning 0990 777 444.