CCTV aids theft war at Coseley school
Security has been stepped up at a Coseley school after lead was ripped from the roof. Raiders stuck at Hurst Hill Primary School seven times between early November and the end of December causing thousands of pounds of damage.
The school in Paul Street has now installed a hi-tech CCTV system to help deter thieves. All lead stolen is being replaced using a substitute material, which has little value and reduces the risk of more attacks. The school is also working closely with Dudley Council and the police to prevent further thefts.
Headteacher Caroline Dingle said: "The new system will act as a deterrent to would-be criminals and we are confident our close working with the police over this matter will have the desired impact.
"It has been a very depressing few months through the winter dealing with a string of thefts when we all want to focus on giving our children the best possible education."
Dudley Council's education chief Councillor Tim Crumpton said: "These appalling thefts have caused damage and disruption to the school in recent months.
"This CCTV will help prevent future incidents and by working closely with the police we can ensure prosecutions can be made."
In the most recent attack on the school, thieves ripped 30 metres of copper pipe from the roof just before Christmas, damaging water pipes and causing water to fall through the ceiling.
Three classrooms were flooded, ruining children's work and the Christmas presents they planned to give each other. The electrics were left in a dangerous state, forcing the school to close.
Figures released by the police show schools in Dudley had been hit by thieves, vandals and arsonists 77 times between April 2011 and November 2012.
