A HEADTEACHER today warned parents they could be faced with hefty repair bills if their children are caught playing on a school roof.

Geoff Tennant, of Avondale County Primary, in Durham Road, Darwen, has issued hundreds of letters to parents at the school and to other homeowners in the surrounding area asking them to inform the police if they see anyone on the roof.

Mr Tennant said it was very unusual that the school had become the target of mischievous youngsters but the problem had become a great concern over recent weeks.

He said the trouble seemed to be happening between 8pm and 10pm when gangs of teenage boys have been reported climbing over the perimeter fence and using a wheelie bin to climb on to the roof.

Building liaison officers have also been drafted in to discuss possible ways of stopping youngsters getting on to the building.

So far only minimal damage has been caused to a sky light and a couple of drain pipes, but Mr Tennant said it had got to stop before someone is seriously hurt.

He said: "Most schools have to put up with vandalism all the time but we are lucky here we don't seem to get a lot of wanton damage. "Recently though it appears the roof has become the local adventure playground.

"I want these youngsters to know we are on their heels. Letters were sent to parents to let them know that boys have been climbing on the roof and for their own safety they need to stop.

"It's a high roof and someone is going to get hurt if they end up falling off. It's not a place to play.

"I'm now asking people to ring the police if they see anyone climbing up there and so far the neighbourhood does seem to be responding, which is good.

"These people will be caught and when they are they will be dealt with by the police and the parents will get the bill for the damage caused."

Sergeant Neil Wilkinson from Darwen police said they were aware of several incidents at the school over recent weeks.

He said: "We are aware of damage caused to the school and would urge youngsters to stay away and if anyone sees anyone on the roof to contact us."

You can contact Darwen police on 01254 353820.