Vandals warned to stay away from schools

This is an archived news story from July 2010

A primary school is increasing its security to deter theives and vandals during the school holidays after a fire broke out at the building in May.

St James' RC Primary School in Pendleton was damaged after a fire during the school's two week term break.

Now, CCTV cameras are being installed at the school to help protect the building and its equipment during the summer break until the school re-opens.

School caretakers will also be on site in the school holidays to look after the school.

Across the city, a round-the-clock council Quaywatch team will be on hand to respond to any security breaches at schools.

All schools are part of a Safer Schools partnership with police and they work closely all year round to improve school security and safety.

Councillor Margaret Morris, Salford City Council's lead member for children's services said: "This is a message to warn potential theives and vandals to stay away from our schools out of hours.

"Criminal damage to schools is a thoughtless act; it costs public money to put right and those that miss out most are the children.

"We have security measures in place to protect school buildings and their equipment, even during the holidays and have support from the police to do this."

Julie Bainbridge, head at St James' said: "The fire at St. James’ affected many people. Fortunately, the school is located in such a visible position that the fire brigade and police were overwhelmed with phone calls from shoppers and neighbours who saw the fire.

"This meant that there was a quick response from the emergency services and the damage was able to be contained to a small area. The increased security, will give us peace of mind over the summer break.”

Date published: Thursday, 22 July 2010
Reference number: 10-2667

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