A NURSERY will remain open and running "business as usual" after a parent of a child tested positive for coronavirus.

George Dent Nursery, on Elms Rd, Darlington confirmed that a parent of a child in attendance at the nursery had tested positive for COVID-19, but that the centre would not be closing in response.

Instead, headteacher Helen Dummett said that safety precautions and additional measures had been increased, and that the nursery was considered at "minimal risk".

Mrs Dummett said that she has consulted closely with Public Health Darlington, and was advised not to close the premises.

"We are stepping up our measures in response to the infection including sending children home who have continuous or new coughs, monitoring temperatures, reducing visitors to the nursery, thoroughly washing hands regularly throughout the day and washing down surfaces regularly.

"All members of staff and present and have been informed on the situation - using hand sanitizer on entry and exit of the premises."

The majority of children at the nursery are still said to be attending as usual, but those with health conditions and who may be more at risk from the virus have been sent home.

Children who live with elderly relatives, or spend frequent time around them are also not attending.

Mrs Dummet also confirmed that the child whose parent tested positive for coronavirus is not attending the nursery currently.

"We aim to be transparent with parents, and all of them have been very supportive during this time, which we appreciate.

"George Dent will remain open until we are advised differently."

Ken Ross, Public Health Principal with Public Health Darlington, said: “Any decisions on widespread school closures will be made by the Government in line with specialist advice from the Chief Medical Officer and other experts. Decisions on whether to close an individual schools is one for its head teacher and governing body.

“Everyone has a role to play in helping to contain the spread of the virus."