A SCHOOL have had their picnic benches stolen from their grounds.

Alder Grange School in Rossendale were the subject of the theft last night.

A statement from police read: "We've picked up tonight that Alder Grange School have had their picnic benches stolen from outside the school grounds.

"They may think they can sell them on as pubs etc try to maximize capacity so if you see anything that could be related to this offence please let us know."

The school have also started a Just Giving page to raise money to replace the stolen benches.

A statement from the page read: "Owing to Covid we've had to reduce the number of pupils eating in the dining areas, therefore the additional outdoor seating has provided somewhere where pupils can sit and eat their lunches whilst socialising at a safe distance with friends.

"Without replacement benches, pupils will either need to stand and eat, or eat in classrooms.

"The pandemic has put a huge strain on school finances, which is why we are asking for help - the alternative is to reduce spending in subject areas."

The school also released a statement on Facebook, which said: "Who’s Stolen our Picnic Tables?

"We cannot believe that at some point yesterday the outdoor picnic tables were stolen from school."

To donate to the page visit the website here.