'Mindless' vandals break into Lytham primary school, start fire in nearby woods and release chickens

Fire crews from Lytham St Annes were called to reports of a fire in some woodlands next to a primary school on Green Drive at around 7.22am today (April 24).

When firefighters arrived at the scene, they found the school had been broken into and the children's chickens had been released.

The vandals then went on to set fire to nearby trees in an act which has been branded as "mindless" and "selfish" by fire crews.

A spokesperson for Lytham Fire Station said: "Local primary school had been broken into and children’s chickens stolen.

"Mindless, selfish vandalism finished off by setting fire in woods.

"Left in care of Fylde Police. Local community please be vigilant."

Crews were at the scene for approximately forty minutes.

The chickens have reportedly been found.

A joint investigation is now underway alongside Lancashire Police to find the culprits.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue service added: "Firefighters from Lytham were called to reports of a fire in some trees near to a primary school on Green Drive, Lytham St Annes.

"On arrival they found a fire in some nearby woodland which they quickly extinguished.

"There was also some damage found to some school farm buildings."

Lancashire Police have been approached for comment.