SCORES of parents expecting their children to return to school after half term had to hurriedly make alternative arrangements following a fire.

Head teacher Ralph Bullock said the fire at Bishop’s Hull Primary School, which is due to re-open tomorrow morning (Thursday, November 6), would have been devastating if it hadn’t been spotted in time.

Smoke was noticed issuing from the ladies toilet at the front of the school at around 8pm on Sunday by a community group inside the building.

Firefighters quickly got the fire under control, although the toilet was badly damaged and there was heavy smoke damage to the rest of the toilet block and the lobby outside at the entrance to the hall.

Teachers and other staff were among volunteers who turned up on Monday, when school had been due to restart after half term, to offer assistance before a professional cleaning company was called in.

Workers are also replacing ceiling tiles and there have been complications with asbestos.

Mr Bullock said: “Fortunately the classrooms are all fine, but we lost all the toilets – it’s a mess and there’s a strong acrid smell.

“It’s incredibly frustrating and upsetting, but it could have been a lot worse – if it hadn’t been caught as early as it was, the whole building would have gone up.

“I really appreciate that parents have been inconvenience and thank them for their understanding. Everyone realises we’ve got to put safety first.

“We will re-open on Thursday provided no other complications arise.

“We’re grateful for the support and offers of help we’ve received from parents and members of the community.”

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue spokesman said the cause of the fire, which started in a plastic bin, is believed to have been accidental.