A STOURBRIDGE primary school has closed this week after a rise in coronavirus cases.

Gig Mill Primary school has closed to all pupils except year six - for whom today (Monday July 19) will be their last day.

The school on The Broadway messaged parents yesterday stating that four more class bubbles, with 120 pupils, had closed after positive coronavirus cases amongst pupils and 19 staff are self-isolating.

Headteacher Angela Hannaway said she was sharing the news with a "heavy heart."

The message stated: "Sadly this weekend we have closed four more class bubbles and have 19 staff self isolating.

"After advice from LA and Public Health, governors have made the difficult decision to close school to all pupils YN (nursery) to Y5 from today as it not feasible for us to be able to open safely."

The school had been due to close on Wednesday.

For year six pupils today will be their last day at the primary school as they will start at secondary school in September.

A message from headteacher Angela Hannaway to parents stated: "I was really hoping that it would end in a positive way, and all the staff would be waving you and the children off on Wednesday, wishing you all a Happy Holiday.

"Sadly this is no longer the case.

"I am writing this with a heavy heart to let you know that since Friday evening through to this morning, we have four further bubble closures due to positive tests for children.

"With a further 120 children and 18 additional staff isolating it is not possible to continue until the end of term as planned."

"Having spoken to Public Health and the Local Authority, the governors have now made the decision that school is now closed to all pupils from Nursery to Year 5, as we do not have sufficient staff to operate safely."

She added: "Despite all the challenges, we are so proud of the children and staff who have shown great resilience, good humour and independence throughout this pandemic. Huge thanks to our Gig Mill family too for your support – it really has kept us going.

"Please stay safe and look after each other over the holidays. I do hope that you all have a wonderful time making special family memories."