A Swindon school which was forced to close this week due to a gas problem has given an update to parents and pupils.

Lydiard Park Academy informed pupils via Facebook on Wednesday that the school would be shut for the rest of the week.

The secondary school has revealed that the cause was a broken gas pipe near the building but reassured parents that there is no risk to the children.

Wales and West Utilities are working at the site to rectify the issue over the coming days while the school remains closed.

A spokesperson for Lydiard Park Academy said: “We have been advised by Wales and West Utilities that there is a broken gas pipe under the substation near the school and this will take between two to four days to repair.

“There is no risk to pupils or staff but unfortunately, this does mean that the school will be closed to pupils on Thursday, November 30, and Friday, December 1, as there will be no heating or hot water available.

“We have informed all staff, pupils, parents and carers and we will pass on any updates as soon as we have more information from Wales and West Utilities who assure us they will be working over the weekend to rectify the problem.”