The parents of children who attend the Canon Lee School near York were today informed they must collect their children after officials made the decision to close the school after a suspected gas leak.
According to media reports, 500 pupils were evacuated from the school with the exception of Year 10 students who are currently on work experience and not on campus.
Commenting on the incident, Fran Johnston, association head of the school, said: "We've followed the advice of British Gas and City of York Council, and made the decision to close the school as a precaution after a strong smell of gas in one area of the school."
Addressing questions regarding the school's plans for the rest of the week, Mrs. Johnston continued: "We're hoping to be open as normal tomorrow after a thorough check and have engineers onsite at the moment."
In an effort to placate the public, Mrs. Johnston explained that while today's incident may not have posed danger, the school were keen to address the issue with immediate effect, saying: "It is not worth the risk, but British Gas don't think it's a major issue."
Reminding the public they can seek further information online, she concluded: "Up to date information will be on the school website and we have texted all parents."
