Springfield, the National Trust property in Somerset.

The mindless defacing of the "keyhole'' signs outside Springfield and the Gilbert Nature Reserve has been part of a major problem on the property.

But the National Trust is starting a scheme, next week, to interest local students in restoring rather than destroying property.

Trust Director Ms Amanda Outerbridge believes the problem lies with the fact that Springfield is now empty.

Ms Outerbridge said: "Basically we have had vandalism since the library and nursery school moved out of Springfield.

"There is not the kind of daily usage of the building so it is now much more prone to that kind of vandalism.'' While some of the vandalism on the walls and buildings around Springfield has been painted over, the keyhole signs are the major problem.

Ms Outerbridge said: "These signs cost hundreds of dollars to repaint and there is no point trying to replace them at the moment.'' In fact archaeological, architectural and archival works are being carried out at Springfield with a view to opening the building to the public in the near future.

Once that is completed it should see Springfield and the Nature Reserve used more frequently.

Ms Outerbridge said: "By that time we hope there will be more community care about that place, as opposed a place to use up their empty spray cans.'' And tomorrow, Trust official Mr. John Swift of the Pembroke Paint Company will introduce Sandys Secondary School students to how to use paints correctly.

Ms Outerbridge said: "John will be taking some students and showing them how to prepare a surface for painting.

"Some will go over to Springfield to see how to do repainting work on an old building. We really do want to involve the community of Sandys in Springfield.'' VANDALS STRIKE -- Vandals have used spray paint to deface signs outside two National Trust properties in Sandys -- Springfield and the Gilbert Nature Reserve.