PARENTS have rallied to raise hundreds of pounds after vandals caused damage to a children's wood facility.

Staff and pupils at Holly Mount Primary School returned from the half-term break last week to find wooden panels had been set on fire and trees hacked away at.

The area, which was designed to offer outdoor learning days for pupils, had been funded by the school and was in the process of being built by volunteers from Bury Rangers.

After discovering the damage, the school set up a fundraising page to replace the equipment. It has since raised more than £900.

Teacher Victoria McDermott said: "We have no idea who did this. We are in a secluded location so there is no CCTV.

"The children were very upset, this area was absolutely invaluable to us.

"The children love being outside. Key stage one went out every Friday last half term and parents told us how much their children enjoyed it.

"I set up the page on Friday and within 24 hours we had raised £750. The response from parents has been unbelievable."

As well as replacing the damaged items, the school hope the money will also help them buy night vision cameras to look at wildlife, as well as helping to deter vandals from targeting the site in future.

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/holly-mount-pta.