A West Cumbrian school has remained closed today because of a gas leak.

Ewanrigg Junior School, Maryport, shut its doors at 11.30am yesterday when the leak was detected.

Engineers found a problem with the boiler system and are due to work on repairs throughout the day.

Learning mentor Kay Dawson said it was proving to be a major job and she was unable to say if school would reopen tomorrow.

Headteacher Yvonne Craig said yesterday: "When we came in we noticed there was a bad smell of gas so we had to close the gas.

"But that meant we didn't have any hot water or cooking facilities.

"The gas company said the earliest they could come was two hours, so we had to send the children home.

"Everyone is safe and that's what matters. When it comes to these things you just can't take the risk."

Miss Craig added that the school's internet had also been down but staff had managed to update the school's Facebook page using mobile phone data and by text message.

She said: "It's been quite hectic with the fire at SIS pitches. But the parents have been very supportive.

"We''ll be updating parents through the school's Facebook page and text messages."