THREE more schools in the North-East have confirmed positive Covid-19 cases and have closed to certain year groups.

Haughton Academy in Darlington, Oxclose Community Academy and St John Boste Primary School, both in Washington, have become the latest to report positive cases.

In a text message, seen by The Northern Echo, Haughton Academy said a pupil in Year 9 had tested positive.

It said: "Haughton Academy has a confirmed case of Covid-19 in year 9. All other year groups remain unaffected and should attend school as normal. Further information sent by email."

Meanwhile, St John Boste Primary School said it had closed to the whole Year 3 group after a positive test.

In a statement online, it said: "Following the confirmation of an isolated case of COVID-19 in Year 3, we have consulted with Public Health England and the decision has been made to close Year 3 as a precautionary measure so the pupils can self-isolate. Year 3 will open again on Monday 28 th September.

"As all class bubbles are operating independently of one another with no close contacts between them, the school remains open to all other year groups.

"Please continue to remain vigilant in terms of social distancing when on the school yard and also outside of the school gates."

In a letter to parents, dated today, Oxclose Community Academy said a pupil had tested positive for Covid-19.

It said it had identified the affected case and was asking the individual to self-isolate until September 26.