Mice alert halts pupils’ hot meals

Royton and Crompton School

CHILDREN at Royton and Crompton School are going without hot lunches after health inspectors found evidence of mice.

A council spokesman confirmed environmental health officers visited the school’s kitchens on March 22 before the Easter holidays.

They decided the problem was not serious enough to order a closure, but the school was told to resolve the matter and officers will return to carry out another check.

Urgency

No hot meals have been available since pupils started back a week ago but the school denied a claim by a parent that some had gone without food altogether.

Headteacher Kevin O’Hagan said: “Since Monday, April 11, when school reopened following the Easter break, we have provided an alternative provision, meeting statutory requirements, of sandwiches and drinks and cakes. Work to improve the fabric of the school was taking place, including over the Easter break, however as a result of an inspection some further improvements have been undertaken and the school is currently working to ensure these are completed as a matter of urgency.

“The school is subject to no-notice inspections as any other organisation would be and we welcome the opportunity to ensure we are meeting all necessary requirements. At no time has the school kitchen been closed.

“We are seeking to resolve the matter as soon as possible.

“We are working with parents and are appreciative of their understanding of the situation.

“Information appears on the school website. This information will be updated accordingly.”