‘Heartbreaking’ vandalism at Norfolk pre-school

Staff at Mundford pre-school near Thetford discovered a “heartbreaking” scene on Monday morning following an act of “mindless” vandalism.

The pre-school’s forest area, which came to fruition after diligent fundraising efforts from the local community, including Tesco, had been “completely trashed”.

Amanda Rolph, the nursery’s manager, said: “We are all still in shock.

“The children loved that area and we are currently not taking them down there.

“We just don’t understand why anyone would do that.

“Not only has the shed been destroyed but there were also handmade items that ourselves and the children made that just can’t be replaced.”

Police have been informed yet there is no indication of who the vandals are.

Ms Rolph said: “If I could say something to the people that did it I would say that I’m saddened someone would take that away from the children.

“The community have been a fantastic support we’ve been really overwhelmed.

“We’ve had so many messages of support and kindness, people offering up their time and we’ve even had several offers of a new shed.”

The pre-school has set up a GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/rebuild-our-forest-school which has already managed to raise £1480, more than three times its original target.