Vandals “risked their lives” as they laid waste to a derelict north-east hospital.
Around £600 worth of damage has been caused at the crumbling Maud Hospital, in Aberdeenshire.
Police investigating the destruction – which they believe happened between Wednesday July 8 and Friday July 24 – say the culprits also stole items from the building.
First opened as the Buchan Combination Poorhouse in the late 19th century, the hospital closed its doors more than a decade ago.
The building has been subjected to repeated break-ins and vandalism since its closure but plans are now in place to convert it into new homes.
Last night a local police spokesman said that those responsible “put their lives at risk”.
He added: “This site is currently derelict and awaiting redevelopment.
“There are signs, fencing and boarding up in and around the entire estate to keep members of the public out for their own safety.
“It is extremely dangerous to be entering these sites and potentially puts lives at risk for those going in and the emergency services responding to calls.
“I urge people to stay out of the site itself and appeal for any witnesses with information that may assist with inquires to identify those responsible for the damage and theft within.”
Maud Hospital was designed by Alexander Ellis and originally opened in 1867.
The poorhouse had accommodation for 180 ordinary inmates and 24 so-called “lunatics” and cost £5,700 to build.
Anyone with information can contact the police on 101 or those who wish to remain anonymous can call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. The crime reference number is CF0169460720.
