| The spire at Tayport Primary School has been in disrepair for some time but had deteriorated overnight.
The metal tip of the large structure could be seen hanging off.
The decision to close was taken by head teacher Brenda Short shortly after 9 am.
School staff spent the morning phoning round parents to ask them to come and collect their children.
All but a handful of the 300 plus pupils had been taken home by lunchtime, and those remaining were waiting in the school hall to be picked up.
A nativity play and a Christmas party for the P4 class, due to be held this afternoon, had to be cancelled.
The school was due to close for the Christmas holidays tomorrow at lunchtime. It could reopen tomorrow, Mrs Short said, if emergency work was carried out on time.
Mrs Short praised parents’ for their support in the incident. She said, “Everyone has been very helpful and accommodating.”
The spire tops a Victorian building which dates back to 1876. Steeplejacks have been called out before because of problems with spire.
Fife Council education officer Neil McNeil said, “There has been an ongoing problem.
“It was felt the problem had deteriorated overnight and it was decided to close the school as the safety of the children and staff could not be compromised.
“Building services have been contacted and we hope to find a resolution soon.” |
