THATTO Heath Primary School will be closed to all pupils tomorrow (Friday) due to a continued outbreak of illness.

Public Health England had issued a warning following increased levels of children catching gastroenteritis across St Helens earlier this week.

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The primary school, based on Hobart Street, Thatto Heath, has announced it will be closed on Friday.

A letter to parents from headmistress Catherine Ireland read: "I am writing to inform you that I have, unfortunately had to take the decision to close the school to all pupils tomorrow, Friday, November 29 due to the continued outbreak of flu-like symptoms and sickness and diarrhoea.

"The illnesses have been peaking throughout today with a significant number of pupils having been sent home. All infection control measures, as instructed by Public Health, have been implemented. A deep clean of the school premises will be undertaken during the closure.

"School will reopen on Monday, December 2. The planned performance of the year five and six Carols service at St John's Church on Monday will, however, be cancelled.

"I will, of course, keep you informed of any future developments and hope that the remainder of our planned events will take place.

"We hope that any pupils and their families affected by the illnesses make a speedy recovery".