A thousand pupils at two Bradford schools will remain at home for the rest of the week after being forced to leave their lessons by a mysterious smell.

Horton Grange and Farnham primaries have been closed since the start of the week when the strong odour was reported.

Although engineers initially suspected a gas leak, it is now believed the stench was caused by faulty drains. The schools are located next to each other in Stratford Road, Great Horton.

A Yorkshire Water spokesman said: "Yorkshire Water has been on site since yesterday morning and investigations are continuing into the source of the odour.

"Early results have shown nothing unusual in the sewerage network which could cause the odour. However, we have flushed the sewers to ensure any potential blockages are removed.

"We will continue to monitor the sewers in the area and are working hard to ensure the school can get back to normal as quickly as possible."

Zahid Iqbal, who lives near the schools in Waverley Terrace, said he had been forced to make alternative arrangements for his daughters, aged 11, nine and five.

Neighbour Faraz Muntaz said: "You often smell something when you open the door. It smells like gas. My daughters attend Farnham and were sent home at the beginning of the week. No-one has told us why."

A Bradford Council spokesman said: "The schools will be closed today and tomorrow for pupils. This is due to the time needed to ascertain the problem. Staff will remain on site."

The spokesman added that officials suspected Farnham Primary's swimming pool had also been contaminated by raw sewage.

It is hoped the schools will be able to open on Monday.

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