Police are planning to step up their patrols of Borehamwood schools over the summer holidays to deter vandals.

Schools and the town mayor have welcomed Hertfordshire Constabulary's planned special operation, following recent spates of vandalism, theft and trespass.

During the May half-term holiday, Parkside Community Primary School, Lyndhurst School and Woodlands Primary School, in Borehamwood, all suffered broken windows, obscene graffiti and damaged equipment.

Hertswood School has also been repeatedly targeted, with one incident involving 28 smashed windows, a wheely bin thrown through a glass door and motorcycle-riding across school playing fields.

Hertfordshire Constabulary last week warned youngsters they face prosecution if they vandalise or trespass on school property.

Crime prevention officer PC Chris Heyward said of the patrols: "They would mainly be in the afternoons and evenings. Some will be in vehicles, some on foot, some in plain clothes and some in uniform."

Insp Dave Rankin said: "Youngsters looking for somewhere to hang out with their friends during the summer holidays may be tempted to break into their local school.

"We would like to remind everyone that schools are private, not public, property, and breaking into school property is not only an offence, but is also extremely dangerous.

"We will take swift action against anyone who we catch, or identify, as vandals or people causing a nuisance."

Sue Weller, caretaker at Kenilworth Primary School in Kenilworth Drive, welcomed the operation, adding: "We do need it we have had the school broken into before."

Martina O'Connell, caretaker at St Teresa's JMI School in Brook Road, agreed: "I think it is good. The police should pull up outside the school and walk around it, especially at around 8pm."

The Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Martin Heywood said: "Anything the police can do is very welcome. I am sure it will be a real benefit."

But Councillor Heywood, who would like officers to walk around the schools at night, added: "I just hope they have got enough officers."

Police appealed to residents to call 999 if they see a crime in progress, or Borehamwood Police Station on 020 8905 1212 if they see youngsters on school property.

Hertfordshire County Council has budgeted £500,000 this year for schools to improve security.