A HAMPSHIRE school caring for society’s most vulnerable children has re-opened after vandals forced a week-long shutdown.

St Francis Special School in Oldbury Way, Fareham, was forced to closed on November 9 after hooligans entered the grounds and caused £15,000 of damage.

Yobs spray-painted graffiti on buildings as well as smashing 19 windows and glass panels.

It was the latest in a spate of incidents at the school, which looks after children aged between two and 19 with learning difficulties.

The site re-opened yesterday after repairs were carried out with the help of the local community.

Head teacher Steve Hollinghurst said: “It was great to see all the children and parents and lovely to see the school looking wonderful again.

“There has been a great outpouring of support from the local tradespeople and the community.

“Many parents, carers, friends, families and staff have raised money and we wish to thank everybody so much for their kindness.”