UK COMPUTERS STOLEN FROM SCHOOL EDP24 - Arson attack puts back start of term at school

05 January 2008 07:30

Arsonists who targeted a newly-refurbished Norfolk school have destroyed thousands of pounds of equipment.

Fire crews rushed to Barnham Broom Primary School as a blaze tore through the building on Norwich Road at about 10.20pm on Thursday night.

It took four engines from Wymondham, Hingham and Hethersett to finally bring the fire under control and such was the smoke damage special equipment had to be used to clear it.

Now the school, which was hoping to open on Monday with the latest set of improvements, will be forced to remain closed for at least another week.

Yesterday police and fire investigators scoured the scene for clues to find those who started the blaze and also stole two computer towers.

Headteacher Keith Wright said: “The main activity area where most of the group work takes place has been destroyed.

“Most of the classrooms lead off from there. One classroom is very badly smoke damaged.

“We've lost a printer, several computers. All the resources used for creative subjects, books, musical instruments, paper, art and tech equipment have been destroyed.

“There's thousands of pounds worth of damage. Fortunately, for security reasons, I put the trolley of laptops usually in the activity area in my office so they should be fine.

“We have very inspired teachers who will find a way to work around the loss of equipment. The four classes that work in the nearby rooms will be fine; it will be the fifth that could pose a problem.

“I'm talking to the county council at the moment and we'll sort something out. I don't want parents to worry.”

The school, which has about 120 pupils, was in the final phase of major refurbishment to expand and accommodate more children.

Work had been carrying on since July to add more room onto classrooms as well as improve the existing building.

And while the extension was not damaged in the blaze, carpet laid several days earlier was; luckily the finishing touch of re-painting had not been started.

Last night a police spokesman said: “We are investigating a suspicious fire and two computer towers that were also stolen in the incident.

“We are appealing for witnesses to call Bethel Street CID on 0845 4564567 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.”

The school will be closed from Monday January 7 until at least Friday January 11.