A SECONDARY school in north Herefordshire has said the enforced closure is an unfortunate, historic moment.

This evening the UK Government announced all schools will close on Friday evening, with nurseries and private schools asked to do the same.

The closures will also impact examinations in May and June which will not go ahead as planned.

The headteacher of Lady Hawkins' School in Kington said the school has been planning for this outcome and is hoping to minimise the impact on pupils.

"The last time that our school had to close under conditions like this was almost beyond living memory and this is an historic moment," Paul Jennings said.

"We are awaiting further clarification on the provision for front line staff children and will update as soon as we know more.

"I have worked with staff and governors to ensure that we have a plan in place to maintain education for as long as possible during the enforced closure.

"Each student has an individual pack of work, including their end of year assessments, which will be sent home with them on Friday.

"The professionalism and dedication of our staff, the support of our governing body and the understanding shown by parents has kept our school open and shows just how importantly we view education in our local area.

"I am sure that, by continuing to work together, we can minimise the impact that this unfortunate closure will have on our young people."