A CAMPAIGN to stop vandals destroying school property was launched by police in Darlington on Monday.

Officers will visit every school and hand out leaflets to more than 15,000 pupils before the summer break, asking them to back Darlington Community Safety Partnership's School Watch appeal, also known as Operation Bonanza.

Leaflets will also be posted to people living near schools, urging them to be vigilant if they see youths trespassing.

PC Adrian Rutter, Darlington's schools liaison officer, said: "We know that youths go round the back of schools and there's often drink involved and sometimes smoking and drugs.

"There is often vandalism as well, with certain schools in certain areas having their windows regularly smashed.

"It's fine if youngsters have permission to go on school property and play football or whatever without causing damage.

"The aim of this campaign is for a safe, happy and damage-free holiday."

Sgt Paul Robinson, of the partnership, said: "We are aware already of seven schools that are suffering from repeated damage, caused out of school hours."

Police and uniformed warden patrols will be increased near schools during the holidays.

Jacqui Snowball, Neighbourhood Watch liaison officer, said they are urging everyone to take responsibility for their school and area and let them know when things are going on.

Stephen Harker, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for education, added: "It is hoped that this combined effort will stop anti-social behaviour and damage to school buildings, which can be time consuming, expensive and distressing."

Emily Harkin and Carol-Ann Harrison, year seven pupils from Haughton Community School, designed the School Watch leaflet and won a visit to Mawers Talbot Print in Whessoe Road, to see it being printed.

To report vandalism or anti-social behaviour at schools, contact the police on (01325) 467681.