Security cameras are being installed at a Shoreham day centre which has been targeted by vandals.

A caretaker is also being employed to keep an eye on Glebelands Day Centre in Middle Road following a spate of incidents in which damage costing thousands of pounds has been caused.

Buses belonging to the centre, for people with learning difficulties and mental health problems, have been vandalised and in one incident a brick was thrown through the back window of a vehicle while centre users were being driven home.

Graffiti has been daubed on the buses as well as on buildings and equipment, tiles have been removed from the roof and a chess set in the centre's Millennium Garden was set on fire.

One of the volunteers who helps out at the centre, who did not want to be named, said: "Everyone is concerned about the mindless vandalism which has happened. There is a great deal of worry about what might happen next.

"The staff and volunteers work extremely hard to ensure the safety of centre users who would be unable to come here without the buses and the help they get from the drivers.

"Many of the centre users live on their own and without the buses they are stranded.

"We wonder if the vandals responsible and their parents realise the danger they are in by climbing on the roof and setting fire to equipment.

"It is the community which has to pay for all of this damage through council tax."

West Sussex County Council, which runs the centre, has now decided to install closed circuit television cameras in a bid to deter the vandals.

A spokeswoman said: "We are very disappointed and concerned Glebelands has become a victim to these cruel acts of vandalism.

"We are introducing a number of new measures which we hope will deter any future incidents.

"Closed circuit television cameras are being installed this week and a caretaker is also being employed to keep an eye on the property.

"We would ask anyone who sees or knows about any acts of vandalism to contact the police so these crimes can be stopped.

"We are very proud of all of our day care centres and we want Glebelands to remain a pleasant and safe environment for all who use it."