Two years after the community raised nearly £3,000 following an arson attack at Harrison Nursery School in Lurgan, the outdoor area has been attacked again.
On Thursday night, it was reported that the area had been vandalised and the windows were broken.
In a social media post on Friday afternoon, the school said their new forest cabin – which was only installed eight weeks ago – had been damaged.
The school said: “Sad to report that our new forest cabin (installed 8 weeks ago) was vandalised last night. The site has been cleared and replacement panes ordered.
“Thank you to everyone who has messaged, emailed and phoned school – your kindness and support is truly appreciated. Thank you Peter Haire & Carla Lockhart for highlighting this issue and Peter for helping to get it fixed.”
A police spokesperson said they are investigating a report of criminal damage caused to the premises.
“It was reported around 9:15pm that a number of windows had been smashed at the premises on Toberhewny Lane Lower,” they said.
In September 2022, an outdoor forest area used by the children was reduced to smouldering ash when it was attacked by arsonists.
At the time, the principal Jill Hunter said her and her staff were “devastated”.
The site was cleared, a GoFundMe was set up and local people began to chip in to help get the school back on it’s feet.
The community fundraising efforts saw a total of £2,875 handed over to the school.
The fundraiser was set up by David Martin and Carla Lockhart MP, who expressed her disgust at this week’s act of destruction.
Said Ms Lockhart: “This is just totally uncalled for, unacceptable and is destroying our own community. Anyone with any information please come forward. PSNI are reviewing CCTV footage.
“Those responsible need to learn via the law that this is not how you behave.
“I know Jill in Harrison is gutted but she will not be deterred from what she and her staff do on a daily basis enriching children’s lives in their early years.”
Her party colleague, Councillor Peter Haire, added: “Very saddened to see that Harrison Nursery has been vandalised again. There is no place for this in our community. Police have been notified and are going through camera footage. If anyone seen anyone or know of anything please contact myself or the PSNI.”
The police spokesperson continued: “Enquiries are ongoing and police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the incident to contact 101 quoting reference number 1827 – 03/05/24.
“A report can be made using the online reporting form. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.”
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