VANDALS broke into a primary school and daubed obscene graffiti on walls and play equipment.

It was the third time youths had caused havoc at Horwich Parish CE Primary School in just over a week.

Up to 20 youths have been spotted scaling the fences surrounding the school to get inside the grounds.

On Tuesday they covered the school's mural, walls, garden seating and a climbing wall with paint.

The previous Monday and Thursday, youths broke into the school's sports equipment room.

They ransacked the room and threw some of the equipment outside.

Headteacher Alan Beedie said the incidents had upset the children.

He said: "If we can identify the culprits we would want to press charges.

"They wrote obscene words and this has been very upsetting for the children.

"They are relatively innocent primary school children and were shocked by what they saw.

"We tried to scrub it off but can't hide it from them. It will need repainting which of course will be costly.

"The week before on two occasions they broke into the PE shed and scattered equipment all over the place.

"I would urge anyone who knows who these youths are to contact the police.

Spray cans were found at the scene which the police have taken away to examine.

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: "I have seen youths climb over the locked gate on regular occasions. Sometimes there are about 20 of them and they are only between 13 and 16 years old.

PC Andy Vernon, community beat manager for Horwich, said: "We are aware that there have been some incidents of vandalism at the school.

"A crime prevention officer has visited the school and offered advice and the incidents are being investigated."

Anyone with information should contact the police on 0161 872 5050.