A Bolton secondary was forced to carry out partial closure and faces #163;250,000 of repair bills after a burst water pipe flooded the building last week.

Rivington and Blackrod High had to close part of the school for more than two days after water surged through the building, wrecking over a dozen classrooms.

In total, the burst pipe damaged four science laboratories, the kitchen, dining room, two geography rooms, two food technology rooms, a textile room, four staff areas and two religious education rooms.

Speaking to the Bolton Journal, deputy headteacher David Waugh said: “The health, safety and welfare of our students is our most paramount concern.

“In addition to the challenge of making the site safe for all 2,000 students, we had 18 rooms out of commission due to the flooding.”

A Bolton Council spokesman added: “Temporary provision will be put into place at Rivington and Blackrod to ensure that classes can be taught as soon as possible. Refurbishment work will then be completed in the summer holidays.” RV.