Thieves stole Christmas presents destined for a pre-school children's festive party.

More than 60 gifts had been bought and wrapped for children attending the Kipling Lions Pre-School party.

But vandals broke into a shed in the grounds of Rudyard Kipling School, Woodingdean, and swiped the lot.

Play care worker Michelle Date said: "It was such a mean thing to do. We were gutted.

"It was probably just a bit of fun for the thieves but it has caused such a lot of heartache and distress here."

Staff raced to the shops to buy selection boxes so the children would still be able to receive a present from Santa at the party.

Michelle said: "They all got their prezzies but we haven't been able to replace the children's cycling helmets and the £200-worth of things left over from the school fair, which they also took.

"They have trashed our garden and damaged the shed which has only been there two weeks. The children raised money towards that through their teddy bears' picnics.

"It may not sound much but it's a very big deal to us.

"We're a registered charity and we're tightly funded. Although we may be able to claim some of it on our insurance, they may not pay out for six months."

Anyone who wants to help out is asked to call Michelle on 01273 309352.

Woodingdean Lions have supported the pre-school group in the past.

Councillor Geoff Wells, a member of the Lions, said: "I don't know what sort of lowlife can do despicable things like this.

"I hope the police catch them and when they do, they are given a punishment that fits the crime, not just a slapped wrist."