SS Simon and Jude CE Primary School fire investigations continue

Forensics have been on the scene yesterday, to try to establish the fire which has all but destroyed the school building.

In a recent update from the school to parents on their website, Katie Jones, one of the Year Four teachers at SS Simon & Jude CE Primary School, said: “Thank you for all your well wishes and offers of support.

“I appreciate that as a community we are facing challenging times ahead but please do not worry.

“We are working hard in the background to ensure plans are in place for September. 

• ALSO READ: Primary school appeals for book donations after devastating fire

How the primary school looks (Image: SS Simon and Jude CE Primary School)

“As a school we are being supported by the fire service, police, Bolton Council and Vantage Academy Trust.

“In terms of updates, I will continue to email parents directly as well as add to this page.

• ALSO READ: Police and fire investigation into fire which ripped through school as update issued

“We know that this is a difficult time for everyone. As a community we will continue to work together, with our children at the centre.

“I will provide a further update next week. In the meantime, if you need to speak to school, please contact us via our school office email: sssjoffice@vantageacademies.co.uk.

“Thank you for your continued support and patience whilst we map out the future of SSSJ.”

A bulldozer was at the building yesterday (Image: SS Simon and Jude CE Primary School)

Firefighters were called to SS Simon and Jude CE Primary School Great Lever at 8.30am on Thursday, August 17 with nearby roads closed off to traffic.

The fire was said to have started in the roof of the school.

The fire started on one side of the roof, the fire then spread across, with smoke being visible across Bolton.

Flames could be seen coming from the roof as around 80 firefighters battled the blaze at its height.

By midday, the flames had destroyed much of the roof with firefighters bringing it under control around 2pm.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno.