A PRIMARY school which had asked a number of pupils to self isolate because of Covid-19 has now closed completely for two weeks.

Byerley Park Primary School, at Newton Aycliffe, has confirmed that there have been 'multiple positive cases of Covid 19 amongst staff' and some are said to be 'very poorly'.

Headteacher Alison Gargan said: "We have unfortunately had several staff test positive for Covid and a number are very poorly.

"We are extremely sad to have had to shut for our pupils but we are doing what we can  to try to cease the spread of this virus.

"Our thoughts are with the ill staff."

The move comes a week after one staff member tested positive for coronavirus.

At that time the school said it had identified those in close contact with the person involved and recommended that they stay at home and self-isolate until 14 days after their last contact.

The school remained open for other students last week but has now closed, from today (Monday, September 21) until Monday, October 5.