A derelict hospital in Elgin has become the target of repeated attacks by vandals.
Last night, police revealed that the abandoned Spynie Hospital has been damaged seven times since the beginning of the year.
Windows have been smashed at the empty building and repeated attempts have been made to get inside.
This week, the derelict property situated on Duffus Road was broken into twice by intruders, oblivious to warning signs being visible at the site.
Police in Elgin have now issued a warning that people going into the decaying building were putting themselves in danger of injury.
Investigating officer Alison Rennie said the intrigue of looking inside an old hospital was not worth the risk of entering a derelict property.
She added: “Derelict buildings may seem inviting to explore, but there are many hidden dangers, particularly as empty buildings are not maintained.
“There may be unstable structures and hazardous materials such as asbestos and loose fixtures and fittings.”
Despite the hospital being in a state of disrepair, Mrs Rennie warned police would still take action if the perpetrators were caught.
She said: “Although the buildings are no longer used, we take incidents such as this very seriously.
“Those who choose to ignore ‘Keep Out’ signs and enter derelict sites are putting themselves in great danger and we will take action against anyone found within such sites, especially if found to be committing acts of vandalism.”
Spynie Hospital was built in 1933 and was closed by NHS Grampian in 2004 with services transferred to Dr Gray’s in the town.
When the doors shut for the final time, it was used for the care of the elderly.
Officers in Moray are appealing for witnesses to come forward if they have seen damage being caused at the hospital.
Anyone with information about the incidents should contact police by phoning 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
