A crowdfunding campaign has raised over £17,000 in a matter of days to help Camborne Brass repair extensive damage caused by a major break-in at its bandroom at Pavilion Park in Tuckingmill.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed three 12-year-old girls and two 12-year-old boys were detained following the incident on Saturday (August 29). Entry to the building was forced and considerable damage caused to the building’s structure and contents, including valuable musical equipment.

Bandmaster Alan Pope BEM was contacted by police following the discovery of the break-in. “I really wasn’t expecting the extent of damage I found – it was horrendous,” he said. “Windows were smashed to get in, and from inside as well. Anything they could lay their hands on had been chucked across the room.”

The room had been organised following a summer holiday school for around 20 youngsters, including a final concert for parents, and in anticipation of the autumn rehearsal programme.

Damaged items included a timpanum worth £7,500 and a bass drum worth £2,500. Mr Pope’s conductor’s lectern, funded by the band and its supporters to commemorate his 25th anniversary in the role, was also damaged, along with seven music stands suitable for outdoor performances, worth £70 each. As a final act of sabotage, the perpetrators used fire extinguishers to spray the forthcoming term’s sheet music.

“It was carnage,” said Mr Pope, who is a music teacher at Truro School. “Nothing was stolen as far as we can see – it was simply an act of mindless vandalism. I can’t imagine who would do this. It’s crazy.”

The community rallied round to help the band clear up the mess, and dug deep to contribute to a growing fund for repairs. Within 24 hours, a Crowdfunder campaign had raised £10,000, and by Thursday had topped £17,000, including donations from fellow music groups.

Adrian Jones donated £20, saying: “Music is so important to our communities. Wanton vandalism has no place in society … hope your music and spirits will continue to fly high, maybe even higher as a result of this.”

Mr Pope said funds would be ploughed into repairing and improving the bandroom and strengthening security “so this can never happen again”.

“I’m overwhelmed at the response – it’s amazing,” he added. “I’ve had messages from our local community, Cornwall, upcountry and even abroad. I’m so grateful.”

By Thursday, the beginners group – with members aged six years old and upwards - were due to rehearse in the bandroom. “My granddaughter is in that group,” said Mr Pope. “When she saw the photos, she said, ‘That’s my chair.’ This isn’t just a rehearsal room for band members – it’s like a second home.”

The campaign still has still 80 days remaining, and people can continue to donate at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cambornebrass.

Camborne Brass and special guests will play at The Star Inn, Vogue near St Day on Sunday, October 4, from 3pm. Tickets cost £5, to be donated to the fundraising campaign.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson for said enquiries into the break-in are ongoing.