VANDALS struck at a school in an award-winning Mid Norfolk village 'blighted' by crime.A greenhouse with seedlings planted by young gardening club members was smashed up, lurid graffiti daubed in a play area and equipment thrown around at Swanton Morley Primary.

VANDALS struck at a school in an award-winning Mid Norfolk village 'blighted' by crime.

A greenhouse with seedlings planted by young gardening club members was smashed up, lurid graffiti daubed in a play area and equipment thrown around at Swanton Morley Primary.

Richard Lord - headteacher at the 172-pupil school - described it as 'mindless'. It was discovered on Monday and staff had spent a lot of time during their training day clearing up the mess.

'It is so frustrating and disheartening for everyone.'

Swanton Morley - which won Norfolk Community of the Year in the EDP Pride in Norfolk Awards - has been hit by a growing spate of crime.

Parish council chairman Roger Atterwill said: 'In the last year we have had the village playgroup, village hall, church, burial ground, 'Middle Camp' area, and now the school, all blighted by an unpleasant mix of theft, vandalism and anti- social behaviour.'

Describing the vandalism at the school, Mr Atterwill said: 'This disgusting criminal act is beyond comprehension. The staff and children have done nothing to deserve this.'

He said it was thought the crime was caused by a 'tiny minority' and the council was working closely with police and Breckland Council.

'We all have a good idea who is responsible for these ongoing problems and I am confident it is

only a matter of time before those responsible are dealt. I would ask all parishioners to be vigilant and report anything suspicious.'

Information to Dereham police on 0845 4564567.