VANDALS killed a family of rabbits after torching their hutch at a school in Little Sutton.

Two females and four newborn rabbits died when their hutch was targeted on the grounds of St Mary of the Angels Primary and Little Angels Childcare in Rossall Grove at about 1.24am on Thursday.

The vandals also set fire to a shed containing play equipment, fencing and a summer house.

Karen Reeves, a manager at Little Angels, said: “Words fail me. I can’t even start to understand why someone would want to do that.

“We can replace the toys, but how can you replace six lives? I feel sick every time I think about it.

“All the kids helped to clean them out and feed them, they got so much out of them.

“These mindless acts are by the minority of the wider community of Ellesmere Port. The community spirit we have experienced provides us with the determination to continue providing our children with every opportunity possible.”

Rob Hughes, headteacher at St Mary of the Angels, added: “It is a real shame that there are people who have destroyed play equipment used by the pupils and pre-school children.

“If anyone has information we would ask them please to contact police immediately.”

Inspector Peter Case said “This was an abhorrent crime. We would urge anyone with any information about this incident to contact us.

“Targeting a nursery is particularly callous and we appeal to the community to assist us in identifying anyone who may be responsible.”

If you have any information about the incident call Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.