MONEY raised by a community campaign to undo damage caused by a shocking vandalism attack on a secondary school in Thornbury has been handed over.

More than 100 items of “vile” graffiti covered the walls around Castle School in January, containing indecent and insulting language, many referring to individual staff members.

The school had closed for a day while professionals were brought in to clean the windows and walls affected, which caused disruption for students as year nine had been expected to sit mock exams that day.

Police have since carried out a thorough two-month investigation, with all lines of enquiry having been followed up, but they say as yet there is not enough evidence for a prosecution.

Despite the clean-up being taken care of by South Gloucestershire Council, parents of students and the wider Thornbury community rallied to the school’s side, with a fundraising campaign collecting £1,115 in donations in a single day.

The funds were handed over to the school during a year seven assembly this morning by Thornbury mayor Cllr Helen Harrison.

Speaking to the year group, Cllr Harrison said: “A few very sad people attacked the school, but off the back of that the community showed they really value Castle School by fundraising to help repair the damage caused.

“People love the school so much that this incredible sum was raised in only a day and I am delighted to be able to represent the community that raised this money by presenting this cheque today.”

Castle School deputy head teacher Andy Bethell said: “The graffiti brought with it a wave of emotions,” he said. “You have upset and annoyance, at the damage to the school, the interruption to learning and the negative message that it tried to send out.

“But actually you then see from it the essence of support is a big boost to everyone’s confidence, knowing the actions of a tiny minority are not what the majority of the students, parents and community feel.

“We are really grateful for the the money being raised, and are pleased to know the school is valued by our community.”