CHRISTMAS is back on for a primary school which was targeted by thieves last week, thanks to well-wishers who donated more than £1,000 in just 24 hours.

The headteacher of Longleaze Primary School in Royal Wootton Bassett, says she can smile again after generous donations rolled in courtesy of a crowdfunding campaign launched by parent Rachael Cheesewright.

Longleaze was broken into in the early hours of Sunday morning by burglars who kicked open the doors to the office, smashed into a safe and stole £1,800.

The money, raised by staff and pupils at the annual Christmas fayre the day before, was to be used for a Christmas pantomime and equipment for the school’s 262 children.

The cruel theft put the future of the school’s Christmas celebrations at risk but with the support of parents, the public and a mammoth £500 donation from Royal Wootton Bassett firm ASF Signs Ltd, the festive season looks bright once again for the school.

“I am overwhelmed by the generosity shown to us by the parents of children both past and present at the school. It has given us all something to smile about at this difficult time,” said headteacher Claire Pickard.

“I was speechless that so many people have donated, particularly at a time of year when there are financial constraints on everyone.”

The school can now finance its festive activities including a Christmas pantomime, mince pies and mulled wine at their carol singing concert and a roast turkey lunch for all the pupils.

“People are now talking about how lovely the Christmas fayre was and I appreciate that. It was a lovely day and the donations mean we can focus on that instead of what happened,” said Clare.

“We’re a close knit community here and I couldn’t be more grateful for the support we have received.”

And Clare said the unwavering support from the school community has provided some much-needed positivity at the difficult time.

“It’s important for us not to ask the parents to pay for anything because they do so much, the donations really have put a smile back on all our faces. I couldn’t feel more different than yesterday when I was upset and so angry,” said Clare.

Wiltshire Police are investigating the burglary and are looking to speak to a male seen at 1.15am on Sunday November 27. He is described as white, over 6ft tall wearing a dark coloured jacket, with a grey hoodie underneath and dark jeans.

If you have information call Wiltshire Police on the non-emergency 101 number quoting crime reference: 54160106623 or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

To donate to the appeal visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/rachael-cheesewright-1