PUPILS were expected to return on Monday (February 9) to a West Somerset school which was forced to close last week due to damage suffered during Storm Chandra.

The boiler system failed in Danesfield Middle School, in Williton, leaving it without hot water and having to use portable oil heaters to keep classrooms warm.

Headteacher Jo Smith closed the school from Wednesday (February 4) while the maintenance team awaited delivery of new boiler parts.

Ms Smith said the lack of hot water meant the 360-pupil school could not meet essential hygiene and safety requirements.

Pupils stayed at home and were taught online from Wednesday until Friday using Google Classroom.

Now, a school spokesperson has told the Free Press: “Our boiler has now been fixed and Danesfield will be open as usual from Monday.”