We can’t understand why either

“They can’t understand why someone would do something like that when it doesn’t belong to them.”

That’s the reaction from disabled users of Sunderland Homegrown CIC after the nursery, which helps people with disabilities was targeted by vandals twice in a week.

And no doubt after reading our story today thousands of readers will also share their puzzlement.

The Thompson Park nursery has been hit by a double break-in, with those responsible seemingly intent on destroying the hard work of everyone involved in the project.

Although nothing was taken from the break-ins, staff believe the cost of the damage will amount to more than £500, a lot of money for a small charity.

Intruders smashed glass in the windows of the green houses and the woodshed, caused damage to the polytunnels and destroyed plants – including smashing up pumpkins grown by the service users.

About 26 people with disabilities and mental health problems come to the site Monday to Friday, to grow produce.

Students from Sunderland College and Portland Academy also use the facility, which helps service users to gain employability skills and grow in confidence.

Manager and director of the scheme Debbi Byers said: “The project is for people with disabilities and it is not good therapy for them to come in and see this damage.

“Some of them have felt ill because of it and have been really unhappy because of what these people have done.

“We want to get these people prosecuted so they can see that they can’t get away with it.”

Northumbria Police have asked anyone with information to contact them by calling 101 quoting log 258 3/10/18 or 10/10/18.”

If you know anyone who may be involved, don’t hesitate to contact them.