RISK of leaking drains and plumbing problems during extensive building works forced the unexpected closure of a Shipley primary school today.

Parents of children at Wycliffe CofE school on Saltaire Road were told at 9.30pm on last night, by text and email, that it would not be opening this morning.

A Bradford Council spokesman said: "Contractors have been repairing leaky drains as part of improvement works at Wycliffe CofE Primary.

"Unfortunately the task has taken longer than anticipated due to a problem with plumbing that was encountered during the repairs and exacerbated by the adverse weather.

"This meant there was a potential health and safety risk.

"After discussions with the contractor, a decision was taken to close the school to ensure the safety of all pupils and staff.

"We are taking the issue up with the contractor and working closely with the school to resolve the issue as quickly as possible and it is expected the school will open as normal on Monday."