AN historic site was believed to be targeted after a structure was left damaged.

Police were called to Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome in Hackmans Lane to a report of a burglary.

A hangar was said to be damaged as a result of the attempted break-in, but no property was taken from the site.

Ian Flint, chief executive officer at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, said: “Heritage crime in our country is an uncomfortable fact that all museums deal with on a daily basis.

“Even Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, with its CCTV, alarm systems and 24-hour cover is not immune.

“Any kind of criminal attack is a direct insult to our hundreds of volunteers and all their hard work – so we are glad to work with a number of agencies, like Rural Watch and Heritage Watch, to try and tackle this upsetting reality.

“The fact is the best way to challenge it is still the Human Eyeball, Mark one. If you see something suspicious, tell someone straight away.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were called to Stow Maries Aerodrome, Hackmans Lane, Purleigh shortly before 9.25am on Saturday May 6 following reports of a burglary.

“It is believed that it occurred sometime between May 5 and 6.

“No property was taken.

“If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday between 10am and 9pm.

“Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

“Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

“In an emergency always call 999.

“If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.”