STAFF at a school which has been targeted by lead thieves are distraught after one classroom has been flooded and is now unusable.

For the second time in less than a year, thieves went to Cogan Primary School sometime between Wednesday, March 15 and Thursday 16 and took off with lead.

The damage to the roof caused an upstairs classroom to flood and ceilings to leak.

Head teacher Susan Sibert said the damage caused to the school was “absolutely terrible”.

“There was one roof left with lead on. It is terrible to have to deal with this again,” she said.

“The sad part is the bad weather on the weekend has caused the upstairs classroom to flood. Water was pouring down the stairs and the classroom cannot be used.

Mrs Sibert said this year’s theft had also resulted in internal damage.

“The water has come through two ceilings,”said Mrs Sibert, “cracks are now appearing and the walls in the classroom are wet.

“We had to turn off the electricity in the classroom and the new carpet has been ruined.”

The damages caused to the school has caused “upset” and disruption for pupils, the head teacher added.

She said: “Our pupils and staff are upset at the situation.

“We had a very good inspection and strive for excellence but this is an unfortunate turn of events.

“Last time about £5,000 worth of lead was stolen but it will be more this time because of the damage caused inside.”

She added: “If anyone has any information I hope they contact the police.

“I cannot understand who would want to do this to a popular school.”

A spokeswoman for South Wales Police confirmed they received a report from Cogan Primary School of a metal theft shortly before 9am on Thursday, March 16. The matter is currently being investigated.

She urged people with information to contact South Wales Police via 101, quoting reference 1700099270 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.