A SCHEME to protect schools from the skies is to run again after a helicopter blitz cut down on summer vandalism.

Lancashire Police will once again take to the air in the force helicopter when they launch Operation Caretaker during this summer's school holidays.

The scheme is a crackdown on vandalism, criminal damage and arson attacks in the county and was a huge success when it was launched last year.

One school in Blackburn saw a drop of nearly 50 per cent of incidents while the helicopter patrolled the skies.

Posters will also be displayed in schools warning potential troublemakers that the schools -- and them -- will be being watched.

PC Roger Moss, who is working on the operation, said: "We have already gained intelligence information from all six divisions about schools in their areas which seem to be the most vulnerable.

"When the helicopter is already airborne because of operational incidents or photographic work, the crew will take the opportunity to fly over schools in the area on its route back to base.

"Divisional officers have continued to tackle this problem with the relevant agencies and we hope to build on last year's success.

"These mindless acts of vandalism not only have severe financial implications but also cause significant disruptions to school."

Recent figures from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service show Blackburn and Hyndburn have the most incidents of arson on its schools compared with other areas in the county, and are a massive drain on resources.

A fire at Brindle Gregson Lane Primary School, in Bourne Row, Hoghton, last May cost more than £2million damage.

From January 2000 to December 200 there was a total of 296 deliberate fires at schools in Lancashire -- 70 to 80 of which happened in Blackburn and about 60 in Hyndburn.

The figures have been put down to social deprivation in the towns, leaving youngsters bored and tempted to commit offences.