INTRUDERS chased startled alpacas after breaking into a school’s animal enclosure at night.

About eight people, believed to be children, forced their way into the community farm at Oasis Academy Warndon, in Edgeworth Close, Worcester, at about 8.30pm on Monday.

Staff at the school believe the break-in was inspired after another individual, thought to be an ex-student, broke in and filmed himself chasing the alpacas over the weekend.

The group of teenagers involved in the latest incident also uploaded a video of their break-in to social media.

The youths can reportedly be heard threatening the three alpacas in the footage, although none of the animals came to any harm.

Staff and locals went to the school at 8.45pm and helped to repair the fence and comfort the animals.

Emily Hobson, principal of Oasis Academy Warndon, said: “We are very grateful for the support of our local community and parents following the incident and for the assistance of those who came to the academy to work with members of staff in securing the enclosure to ensure the safety of the animals.

“We have reported this incident to the police, and we are looking at ways to strengthen the security around our farm.”

The school has the alpacas as part of its 'community farm', aimed at giving students the chance to learn about animals.

Ms Hobson says the school is now going to reassess the safety of its animals due to the incident.

“It will be extremely upsetting to have to give up the alpacas and the idea of a community farm, but even more upsetting if the animals are hurt as a result of being here,” she said.

Police attended the school after the break-in and patrolled the area throughout the evening.

Officers are now investigating and the school is calling for anyone with information to step forward and help.

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting incident number 0777s of March 13.