A warning has been issued after three nurseries were targeted by burglars in quick succession.

CCTV at Incey Winceys in Eastwood Close, South Woodford, recorded two hooded men smashing their way in during the early hours of Friday (February 27).

Highams Park Day Nursery & Preschool, in Handsworth Avenuewas, broken into last night (March 2) resulting in the theft of a laptop and an iPad. 

Woodlands Day Nursery and Preschool, in High Road, Woodford Green recently had lead stolen from its roof.

Incey Wincey's managing director, Hannah Ince, said the thieves took a while trying to break-in through the front door using various different tools between 3am and 4am. 

She added: "They were determined to get in. 

"After spending some 10 minutes using various tools, they ended up booting through the front door. 

"They kicked it until the bottom glass panel caved in. 

"A TV screen monitor in the hallway was taken within 15 seconds. 

"At one point, they disappeared for 10 minutes and came back.

"Neighbours near the nursery found cards scattered on the pavement from an old purse of mine which was found discarded on the A406."

A computer, camera and around £200 in cash was also stolen as an office was ransacked. 

Every door to the six play rooms were forced open during the hour-long raid.

Bright Horizons, which owns the other two nurseries, confirmed they were both targeted.

A spokesman said: "We are currently working with the police to identify the culprits."

Ms Ince added: "Nurseries are being targeted by callous thieves. 

"I don't understand why these people would want to rob a nursery - it's horrible. 

"People must be on their guard and ensure they act on crime prevention advice."

The burglars are thought to have headed in the direction of Eastwood Road. 

They are described as in their early 20s and were wearing hooded tops and tracksuits at the time. 
One man had a distinctive facial beard. 

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.