Suspected arson closes Yapton school

West Sussex Fire and Rescue (WSFR) was called just after 2am on Saturday, March 11 to Yapton CoE Primary School at North End Road, WSFR said.

Appliances from Bognor Regis and Littlehampton attended the scene where the outbuilding next to the school was alight, a fire spokesperson added.

Firefighters used two breathing apparatus, one high pressure hose reel and one thermal imaging camera to tackle the blaze.

WSFR has confirmed the fire is believed to have been deliberate and has been handed over to police to investigate.

A spokesperson for Sussex Police said: “During the early hours of Saturday morning, West Sussex Fire and Rescue was called to Yapton C of E Primary School. Damage was caused to a wooden playhouse.

“Plastic play toys and a plastic canopy were also involved in the fire, which broke one of the school’s windows, causing smoke damage to the inside of the building.”

The school has issued on a statement on its website stating: “The school is closed on Monday March 13 due to fire damage.

“Please do not enter the school site. More information will follow.”

The headteacher has stated that it is hoped that the school will be open tomorrow (Tuesday).

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