The headteacher of a Suffolk primary school has slammed vandals who left a trail of destruction after smashing up the grounds overnight.

Ipswich Star: Vandalism at Birchwood Primary School. Picture: BIRCHWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOLVandalism at Birchwood Primary School. Picture: BIRCHWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL (Image: Archant)

Steve Cloke, from Birchwood Primary School in Martlesham Heath, said he arrived at work this morning to find a scene of absolute carnage.

Police are now investigating after sculptures, art work and a herb garden cultivated by pupils were damaged overnight.

Staff also discovered a hose pipe had been leaked all over the path, creating potentially dangerous conditions in the icy weather.

Mr Cloke said: “When I got in this morning it was absolute carnage.

Ipswich Star: Head teacher of Birchwood Primary School, Steve Cloke. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNHead teacher of Birchwood Primary School, Steve Cloke. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

“It looks like the work of more than one person.

“They’ve ruined so many irreplaceable things, sculptures commemorating the opening of the school 25 years ago have been smashed up, art work made by the children for our eco awards destroyed, the children’s herb garden.

“They also vandalised really extreme things.

He added: “Our metal table in the middle of the school field, the large concrete table tennis table, numbers near the school itself used by the children.

Ipswich Star: Vandals have broken into Birchwood Primary School. Paul Firman MBE and Head teacher Steve Cloke with the pint pong table that was overturned. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNVandals have broken into Birchwood Primary School. Paul Firman MBE and Head teacher Steve Cloke with the pint pong table that was overturned. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

“A hose pipe was also pulled out and water was leaked all over the floor, which is so dangerous as it’s so icy today.”

Before pupils arrived teachers rushed around, making sure everything was safe.

Mr Cloke added: “The children would be heartbroken to see all their things damaged so we also raced around making sure they don’t see much of it.

“It’s just evil, mindless vandalism. I don’t know why they’ve targeted us, we’re a primary school.

“What kind of person vandalises a primary school?

“It’s heartbreaking for this to happen and so close to Christmas as well.

“I’ve got about 150 parents lined up for the nativity this morning, it should be a happy time of year.

“The police were phoned immediately and they’re coming today to help us find the people who did this.”

Representatives for Suffolk police have been contacted for comment.