A HEADTEACHER of a Broadway school believes her premises were among two in the village targeted by thieves intent on stealing charity cash.

Jane Lavery, of St Mary's Catholic Primary School in Leamington Road, suspects they broke into the school, sometime over the weekend of November 17-18, to steal money raised from events for Children In Need.

About £400 in cash and cheques and a chequebook were stolen in the burglary when thieves forced open a window.

Miss Lavery described the crime as "pathetic" and said: "They probably thought there was a lot of cash in the office after Children In Need.

"Whoever it was wanted cash for a habit and knew there was money in the school."

In the same weekend, Broadway First School, in Lime Tree Avenue, was broken into, with a quantity of cash taken. Thieves used an implement to force open a window - a screwdriver and hammer were found at the scene.

Headteacher, Mike Appleby, said: "Whoever it was ransacked the reception office and stole about £100.

"We think they smashed open the cash box with a hammer because police found a hammer and screwdriver, which they took away to be examined.

"It's obviously a very selfish crime because they are taking money from little children and those who steal from children are despicable."

Both schools added that they would be reviewing their security policies.

Claire Ryan, of West Mercia Constabulary, said: "We believe the crimes are connected and anyone with information should contact police on 01905 723888."