GRAFFITI-spraying thieves went on the rampage after breaking into an educational building.
The yobs forced their way into vandal-plagued Holly Cottage in Wat Tyler Country Park, Pitsea, by smashing open the back door.
Inside, they daubed slogans and tags over every wall. They also helped themselves to two fire extinguishers worth £200.
The timber framed cottage, based inside the park in Pitsea Hall Lane, is used to show young visitors how such buildings were built and what it was like to live in one.
Ray McKay, spokesman for Basildon Council, said it was not the first time the cottage had been the target of vandals.
He added: "Under regeneration plans for the park we are looking to move the cottage to a less prominent position where it is less likely to be targeted."
Witnesses to the incident, which happened between 10pm on Wednesday of last week and 7.30am on Thursday, should call Basildon police on 01268 532212.
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