TRESPASSERS caused £6,000 worth of damage when they broke into aircraft at an airport.

Criminals entered Cotswold Airport on August 11 and detonated a tail cone escape slide in one of the planes which fell to the ground and inflated.

Offenders then broke through a fence and gained entry to another aircraft overnight on August 27 and 28, though they caused no damage.

Wiltshire Police issued a warning of the dangers and safety risks of trespassing at the site.

PC Rob Wilson said: “These people are not only trespassing but they have caused approximately £6,000 worth of damage to the aircraft.

“As well as this, they are putting their lives and the lives of others in danger due to the hazards associated with a live airport and aircraft.

“I’d really like to stress that this airport is not an adult’s playground and there are serious dangers involved in trespassing at an airport like these individuals have been doing.”

CEO of Cotswold Airport Suzannah Harvey said: “It is imperative that people understand that Cotswold Airport is not an airport graveyard.

"It's a fully operational airport with over 35,000 aircraft movements per year and, as such, criminal trespass laws are in place for the safety of aircraft and the general public.”

Anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously near the airfield on the dates mentioned should call 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.