A FORMER school building in Burley-in-Wharfedale has fall-en prey to vandals.

The former Burley C of E School, on Aireville Terrace, has become a magnet for

village tearaways, since its

closure in June.

Many of the windows in the building - sited in Burley's conservation area - have been smashed in a number of wrecking sprees.

Vandals have also broken into the school building through the smashed windows.

Tom Sumner, a committee member of Burley Community Council, said: "I do not know what if anything has been taken but people have been in there.

"Whenever a building is empty it is vandalised. It should have been secured straight away."

The windows of the school have now been boarded up to prevent further damage and entry to the building.

Inspector Paul Clynch, head of Ilkley Police, warned the vandals could be putting themselves in danger.

He said: "Sadly, when you get buildings that are left unattended it does tend to attract people who think it is a good laugh to put windows through.

"It is dangerous. They could end up with a nasty cut. It is expensive as well in terms of replacement.

"We do pay special attention to the area. If we do catch anybody they will be dealt with positively."

The school was snapped up for re-development by Wilcon Homes.

The developers intend to build more than 50 new houses at the site, but have as yet not applied for official planning permission.