ANDOVER police are actively looking at what measures should be taken to combat a recent spate of vandalism and juvenile nuisance at schools in the town.

Over the past three of four weeks - including the Easter holiday break - there has been a 'definite increase' in cases of vandalism and nuisance at schools, particularly in the late afternoon and evenings with youngsters on school premises.

Recent incidents include smashed windows, damage to padlocked gates and walls and a series of thefts.

One of the worst cases happened earlier this week when someone climbed onto the roof at St John the Baptist RC Primary School and forced excrement through the windows and into the kitchen area.

WPc Cheryl Beasley said discussions have been taking place with schools.

"It's something that will be raised at our weekly meeting with a view to seeing what can be done about it and what measures can be taken," she said.

WPc Beasley praised the use of private security firms with dog patrols which are employed by some Andover schools, particularly during the school holidays when the problems seem to be at their height.

Only a few weeks ago, Andover Fire Brigade told how they were stretched to the limit dealing with arson attacks thought to have been started by children.

They issued an appeal to businesses and members of the public to call 999 immediately if children were seen lighting fires.

Hampshire County Council spokeswoman Andrea Smith said the cost of paying for minor damage came out of individual school's budget.

"Measures are being introduced, for example in some of the new schools we have CCTV and we offer a security patrol scheme that operates throughout Hampshire which the schools can sign up to, but the cost does come out of their budget," she said.

"As the schools are locally managed it's down to the headteacher and governing body to make decisions and liaise with the police, but if problems are persistent the county does offer support."