A VILLAGE primary school near Taunton has been hit by an outbreak of Covid-19 cases.

One class at Norton Fitzwarren Church School has a total of 11 pupils with the virus - with more children awaiting test results.

Headteacher Kelly Birt has written to parents and carers saying that the "picture across the school is similar and impacting the staff workforce as well".

Adults are being asked to ensure their children are "well and not presenting symptoms" if they attend school.

Mrs Birt recently reported a small number of coronavirus cases, but the number has since grown.

In her latest letter today (Thursday, March 10), she said: "We need to make you aware that we have further positive cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Maple Class (Years4/5) at Norton Fitzwarren Church School, taking the total to 11 cases in the last 10 days, and more awaiting PCR results.

"The picture across the school is similar and impacting the staff workforce as well.

"We will update you if the situation requires other arrangements to be put in place.

"We would highly recommend that you are vigilant to ensure your child is well and not presenting any symptoms when they attend school to ensure the safety of everyone in our school community.

"Thank you for your assistance in this matter."

We have approached Somerset County Council for a comment.