THOUSANDS of pounds worth of laptops were stolen from a Mosley Common primary school by callous thieves.

The break-in happened at the St John's Mosley Common CE Primary School on Commonside Road at about 9.30pm on October 1.

It is believed the offenders made their way through the school playground before prising open and smashing a glass door, giving them access to the school.

Once inside, they then stole 11 HP laptops from a cabinet and fled.

Police are now appealing to anyone who has information about the break-in to come forward.

Police Con Wayne Warner said: "The school has been deliberately targeted by these callous thieves and the offenders have taken nearly every computer used to teach young children.

"The equipment will cost a lot to replace however it is the pupils who will suffer the most. These computers were often used during lesson time to help them understand their subject and are very valuable for their education.

"I would therefore urge the community to help us with our inquiries and if you overhear anything or you think you might know who is responsible then please come forward and tell us.

"To think that very young children will be deprived of much needed computers is an awful thought so please, if you can help us catch the culprits or if you are offered HP laptops then please tell us."

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.