Rugby primary school forced to close after lit fireworks thrown at children

Children initially had fireworks thrown near them as they tried to leave Rugby Free Primary School on Monday.

Headteacher of the Bailey Road School, Susan Milewski, spoke to children and families who she believed were responsible and she was assured the behaviour would stop.

At 11am the next day children once again had fireworks thrown next to where they were walking as they came to school.

Miss Milewski then made the decision to close the school on Wednesday.

She said the children were safe at all times when they were in school and added: “The decision to close is because I need to be sure that the children can get in and out of the school site safely.

“If the police can provide a presence on Thursday then we will reopen.”

Inspector Allison Wiggin of Rugby Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “Police in Rugby have received reports of fireworks being let off close to Rugby Free Primary School on Monday and Tuesday (6 and 7 November).

“Officers have attended the area and will be continuing to provide reassurance patrols as we work closely with the school and the council to reach a resolution.”

In 2016 barriers were installed on Central Park Drive after a two-year campaign organised by Rugby MP Mark Pawsey to prevent traveller incursions near the school.

Parents with children at the school took to social media to praise the actions of staff in acting quickly to keep pupils safe.

The school was forced to hire 24 hour security in 2015 after travellers set up camp near the school and wrecked its play area. Police said the travellers appear to currently be on council land – meaning a county court order may have to obtained for an eviction to take place.

Police said the travellers appear to currently be on council land – meaning a county court order may have to obtained for an eviction to take place.