THE headteacher of a Worcester school says they are reviewing their security after a substantial amount of lead was stolen.

The theft took place from the Royal Grammar School (RGS), in Upper Tything, sometime between 10.20pm on March 21, and 5am on March 22.

Between these times the offender cut the padlock of the school gates and entered the premises.

The thief then used a ladder at the school to gain access to the roof of the main RGS Worcester Senior School site, on the Tything, where they took the lead.

Lead was also stolen from the roof of the RGS Springfield Preparatory School site, in Britannia Square.

West Mercia Police say during the incident the suspects caused further damage when they ripped a security light off the wall.

CCTV taken at the time of the theft shows a man near the school. The man, in his early 20s, was wearing a yellow jacket, yellow gloves, dark trousers and Nike trainers.

Police believe a dark coloured Ford Mondeo, with alloy wheels, was used.

John Pitt, RGS headteacher, said the school had only been hit minimally by the theft.

“Lead was taken from the exterior of buildings on the main RGS Worcester Senior School site and from RGS Springfield Prep School," Mr Pitt said.

"The RGS Worcester grounds are home to some of the city’s finest examples of historic architecture, dating back to 1868. As custodians of these buildings, we are extremely proud and look forward to celebrating 150 years on the site next year.

"Bearing this in mind we are taking prompt action to restore them to their full glory.

"We sympathise with other institutions, which have been subject to similar crimes and understand that the impact can be catastrophic.

"We have assessed the extent of the damage and are satisfied that in this instance the impact on the school is minimal.

"There are no interior areas affected by leaking water and it has been possible for daily school life to continue as normal.

"Despite this, we are reviewing our security measures to further ensure that such a crime cannot be repeated.

"Given the nature of the crime and the danger involved with scaling high buildings at night, we are relieved that the event has passed with no one injured.”

Anyone with information on the theft is asked to call police on 101, quoting 96S.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or through the website crimestoppers-uk.org.