Third school forced to close after 'severe' flooding in thunderstorm

Flood damage at Tewkesbury CofE Primary School, which will be closed alongside two other schools on Monday
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Another Gloucestershire school has told parents, staff and pupils that it will not be able to open on Monday (September 23) due to flood damage caused during the severe weather. The county was battered and soaked in torrential downpours on Friday that caused widespread damage and disruption.

Already Chosen Hill School in Churchdown and Tewkesbury CofE Primary School have announced they will not be able to open on Monday. There was 'significant' flood damage at Chosen Hill in Brookfield Road while the Tewkesbury primary school in Chance Street saw its library destroyed and more than £12,000 worth of books ruined.

Now, The Milestone School in Longford Lane, Gloucester, has said it won't be able to open on Monday or on Tuesday. The headteacher announced the news in a message to parents.

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Stephen Dowell said: "It is with great regret I have to inform you that due to severe flooding caused by Friday’s torrential rain, The Milestone School will be closed on Monday and Tuesday. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time."

No other schools are currently listed as being closed on the county council's website. More severe weather is expected on Monday and the Met Office has issued a rare amber weather warning for most of the county from 5am to 9pm.

The forecast is for rain throughout the day, with much of it heavy. There is some rain forecast in the early hours of Tuesday and more isolated rain showers for the rest of the week.

For the latest on the weather, see our live blog