PLAYTIME was ruined for a primary school reception class after callous thieves struck over the weekend, taking five new pedal cycles.

The bikes, which were less than a year old, had been stored securely in a locked shed at St Thomas' CE School, Newton Street, Blackburn. Thieves prised open the shed door, stole the children's bikes and left others scattered across the playground.

Among the stolen bikes was a two-seater tricycle costing £300, which had been specially bought for children aged between three and five to use at playtime.

Sue Mellor, who teaches the reception class at the school, said: "We were really upset when we arrived at school. They have vandalised the shed so badly that we don't have anywhere safe to store the children's toys now. It's really hard to believe that people could steal bikes from such young children in the community."

"We had a break-in a few years ago so had 360-degree CCTV installed. The school head is going through the videotape to see if it picked up anything and the police have sent scene-of-crime officers to look for fingerprints." It will cost more than £600 to replace the bikes and the shed may be damaged beyond repair.

Mrs Mellor hopes the two-seater tricycle may be recovered. "It is really unusual," she said. "It's made of damage-proof material so is instantly recognisable."

"We thought it would last the children for ever - it never entered our heads that someone could be cruel enough to steal it."

Inspector Andy Hill, of Blackburn Police, said: "We are investigating a number of similar thefts of pedal cycles and are working closely with the school to catch those responsible. The police are always happy to advise children or adults on crime-prevention measures that can help to lower the chances of being a victim of theft."