A NURSERY has been forced to step up security after a series of raids left it hundreds of pounds out of pocket.

Staff at the First Class Child Care Nursery, Corporation Park, Blackburn, say they are sick of being targeted by raiders.

In the latest break-in, burglars stole children's story tapes and a recorder after disabling the alarm system.

In the past wreckers have set fire to window frames and kicked down doors.

Now the nursery has installed a new hi-tech system linked to a 24-hour monitoring centre.

Officer in charge Jane Moseley said: "We're fed up of being the target of burglars.

"I think they've been coming here because we're in an isolated spot.

"We have a new alarm system and the community police officer is aware of the problem and stepping up patrols.

"They took the tapes and recorder that help the youngsters get off to sleep in the afternoon.

"It's also sickening for the children who come here and see the place wrecked."

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