AN historic bell that took pride of place in the playground of Parramatta West Public School has been stolen.

Year 2 students Julie Kang and George Siderige at the bell stand. PICTURE: JOHN APPLEYARD

Staff and students found the 100-year-old bell missing, as well as 22 bubblers, when they returned to class one Monday morning.

Principal Anthea Donaldson said the bell played an important role at the school and was rung at the start of the school day for many years.

“It symbolises the history of the place,’’ she said. “It is an old school and heritage listed.

Mrs Donaldson often takes former students of the school for tours of the grounds, and a recent visitor was upset to learn of the theft.

“I had one from the ‘50s recently and he was devastated,’’ she said.

“He said the boys would be excited if they were chosen to ring the bell. It was a memory of the school he remembered very fondly.’’

Jamie-Leigh Miles, 11, was one current student who could relate to the tradition of the bell ringing.

Generations of her family attended Parramatta West and had told her of the bell in their day.

“It’s very precious to the ones who’ve been here like my uncle and dad,’’ she said. “It’s sad to see it go because it’s lovely history to learn.’’

Seven-year-old George Siderige gave the thief a message that spoke for all students.

“Can you please give it back to us,’’ he said.

Mrs Donaldson said the school had mounted a search effort in the hope of finding their prized bell.

“People have looked in local antique shops,’’ she said.

“And there was one on eBay, but I don’t think it’s ours.

“And insurance have looked at replacing it, but it won’t be the same.’’