Police have released CCTV images of three suspected thieves who left a Bordon school in chaos following an early morning break-in last week.

A major clean-up operation took place last Tuesday at Bordon Infant School after thieves stole £50 of copper piping from an area undergoing construction work.

The school was shut for the day as the theft between midnight and 1am caused piping to break and flood the assembly hall.

Headteacher Matt Greenhalgh said the piping amounted to around £50 but the work to repair the damage would be “far more” with multiple parents offering to help clean up.

The school’s CCTV footage has since been published on the East Hants Police Facebook page and clearly shows three masked people travelling from the direction of School Road towards Oakmoor School.

The trio were all wearing dark clothing with the removed piping being taken offsite in a large yellow container that’s clearly visible in the footage.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: “In stealing the copper piping, this has caused the piping to break and flood the assembly hall, resulting in the school having to close to pupils for the day.

“We appreciate that those shown have covered their faces, but if you recognise these people, maybe from their clothing, gait or anything else, please report this to us,” said a spokesperson for the police.

“Equally, if you witnessed anyone behaving suspiciously in the area around this time, please report this to us.

“You can do this by calling 101 quoting reference 44250241342, or online via https://orlo.uk/HBVJg

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

The incident has led to increased patrols with members of the local Neighbourhood Policing Team focusing on the Budds Lane and Bordon Inclosure areas of the town with more promised.