AN investigation has been launched after two Ipswich primary schools were broken into. Police believe the two burglaries could have been carried out by the same person or group and are linking the crimes.

AN investigation has been launched after two Ipswich primary schools were broken into.

Police believe the two burglaries could have been carried out by the same person or group and are linking the crimes.

The first took place at St Margaret's Primary School in Bolton Lane between 7.30pm on Friday and 8.30pm on Monday.

Thieves made off with items valued at more than £3,500, including eight Dell laptop computers and two Powershot digital cameras.

The second school targeted was St Helen's Primary School in St Helen's Church Lane.

The break-in took place between 4pm on Monday and 8am on Tuesday.

The burglars managed to get into the school through a window.

A police spokesman said an office was searched and around £20 was stolen.

Both raids took place after the schools had closed their doors for the half-term break.

A spokesman for Suffolk County Council said the theft of the laptops meant much of the pupils' work had been lost.

He added: “Both schools are now reviewing their security and some investment is being made in security equipment.

“Breaking into a school is a serious crime.

“The victims are usually the children whose work is ruined and the whole school suffers disruption and immediate insurance costs.”

Those with information on the burglary at St Margaret's should call Pc Victoria Watts at Ipswich police station on 01473 613500.

Anyone who can help the police's enquiries in relation to the break-in at St Helen's is asked to call Pc Kelly James at the Ipswich Neighbourhood Response Team on 01473 613500.

Alternatively, to report information on either offence anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Have you been a victim of crime? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk