School is closed over virus fears

A school in Sandwell will be closed for a week after children fell ill with the vomiting bug Norovirus, it was revealed today.

Tividale Community Primary School, in Oldbury, will be shut until at least next Wednesday, bosses said, with all 385 pupils told to stay at home.

It is understood that one in five youngsters in years five and six have been affected at the school in Rood End Road.

Headteacher Les Young said: "The school will be closed for seven days from June 24 and it is hoped to re-open on July 1. We will let parents know by text service. The school is closed with suspected norovirus."

There is no suggestion that the closure of the school is related to swine flu. The closure is being carried out as a precautionary measure to prevent any possible further spread of the virus.