VANDALS went on a wrecking spree after smashing their way into a charity's new headquarters - a month after it opened.

Headway, a charity for those with head and brain injuries, now says it will have to redirect funds and manpower to deal with the expected four-figure clean-up.

Members of the charity, located in Headlands Trading Estate, Headlands Grove, say that they were gutted to find the damage when they went into the building in the morning.

"It seems like wanton vandalism by young kids," said Joanna Pearse, business manager.

"I came in at 9am to find the damage at the back of the property.

"The patients knew something had happened but we are trying to shield them from the damage as this is supposed to be a place of security for those who attend.

"I think the damage will come to thousands of pounds of damage.

"And that is going to be a huge drain on our already slim resources.

"It takes both time and money and distracts us from our purpose."

Damage included vandalism to a hedge, about 50 roof tiles were torn off and smashed, lead flashing left in tatters and television cables ripped from the walls.

A builder also found a log that he thinks the vandals threw and caused a hole in the roof.

Graeme Chisholm, chairman of Headway Swindon and District, said that in his 10-years of involvement with the charity he has never had to deal with anything like this.

"The staff are reassuring our clients that we are doing all we can," he said.

"This is very disappointing and a major distraction for us.

"We are getting quotes from builders and arranging for emergency repairs to be carried out."

The centre, which was officially opened by Casualty star Simon MacCorkindale on Jan-uary 18, is said to be vital to all patients who use it on a daily basis.

Investigating officer PC Lisa Tucker described the damage as mindless vandalism.

She said: "This has upset and shocked the members of staff who work at the centre.

"Quotes have been obtained and they have been warned to expect a four figure sum to repair the damage.

"This money could have been put to much better use elsewhere."

Anyone who may have witnessed the damage being cause should call police on 0845 408 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.