A SCHOOL nursery has been completely destroyed by a huge fire which is being investigated by police.

The blaze at Hartlepool's Rift House Primary School broke out at about 6pm yesterday, Sunday, and completely destroyed the nursery and year 3 classroom. An investigation is underway.

The school will stay closed for all pupils apart from those in Year 6 tomorrow, Tuesday.

David Turner, head teacher, said: “Everyone is devastated by the fire which has destroyed the school nursery and Year 3 classroom which were located in an annexe next to the main school building.

“We had to close the school today apart from Year 6 pupils who attended to take their SAT papers. The school will remain closed tomorrow to all pupils apart from Year 6 and a further update will follow soon.

“The support from staff, parents, children, the Council, emergency services and education colleagues has been fantastic and I cannot praise everyone enough for helping out during our moment of need.”

Cleveland Fire Brigade group manager Dave Turton said: "A single storey annexe to the school was well alight resulting in thick palls of black smoke. Six fire engines responded from Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Thornaby.

"The annexe has been destroyed by fire and an investigation into the cause is underway."