Thieves have struck at a north-east school, just weeks after vandals caused more than £20,000 of damage at a nearby primary.
Police were called to Banff Academy yesterday morning when staff spotted evidence of a break-in overnight.
Officers cordoned off a section of the building, where refurbishment works are underway to create new sports facilities for the town.
It is understood the culprit broke into the building between 1am and 2am – but it is not yet clear if anything was stolen.
Throughout the day, uniformed police patrolled around the school while forensic teams could be seen going in and out of the building. Lessons were not disrupted, however.
Head teacher Alan Horberry said: “It is terribly sad that our school has been vandalised in this way. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff for their efforts to keep things running smoothly.
“We are working closely with Police Scotland to ensure a swift resolution.”
The incident happened just weeks after Markethill Primary School in Turriff was badly damaged by vandals.
About £20,000 of damage was caused, with electrical equipment, interior windows and even the trophy cabinet smashed and tables and chairs overturned.
Last night, local councillors blasted those responsible for Banff break-in and urged people to “think about their actions”.
Councillor John Cox, whose children attend the school, said: “This is our community and it must be very upsetting for the kids to hear of this happening.
“It’s so disappointing that it has happened, and I just hope it has not affected any teaching through disruption.
“Pupils there are coming up to a very important time in their lives, with prelims and exams round the corner.
“The people behind this have got to think about their actions and the impact it has on their community.”
A police spokeswoman said: “Police are investigating a break-in at Banff Academy which happened between 1am and 2am on Tuesday, December 13.
“Inquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with information to get in touch.”
An Aberdeenshire Council spokeswoman was unable to put an estimate on the cost of the damage, but did stress it was not “on the scale of Markethill”.
There, the school was closed for two days while the damage was repaired.
Five people, including a 14-year-old girl, have subsequently been charged in connection with the incident.