Year sixes at Eastcombe primary school will have to start fundraising all over again for their leavers trip after thieves stole what they had collected so far from the school office.

The school had to send pupils home on Wednesday after a suspected break-in overnight.

It re-opened as usual on Thursday once police finished their work at the crime scene.

Headmistress Claire Jones said the loss of the year sixes’ trip money was what had upset students most.

Leavers at the school raise money for a trip of their choosing each year, with past excursions including trampoline parks and swimming pool Oasis in Swindon.

Nonetheless, Mrs Jones praised the support of parents and the community as “incredible”.

“Everyone has been really supportive - particularly with last minute childcare,” she said.

She also said the school would now carry out planned security upgrades with new determination.

If readers want to donate to help the year sixes go on their trip, get in touch with the school office on 01452 770227 or at admin@eastcombe.gloucs.sch.uk.

And police ask that anyone with more information on the break-in call 101 quoting incident number 69 of April 18.