This Is Cheshire

School's loss will have a major impact

From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 28th Nov 2002.

UNDERWOOD West Infants was much more than a school to a district designated an area of family stress.

It hosted a three-day-a-week breakfast club, Sure Start and community initiatives.

"This will have a big impact on the whole locality. The children will suffer and so will many others because the community room there was well used.

"It is so sad. I have watched it grow and develop into a very good school where the children are well taught and happy. Now it is back to square one, without even books or pencils. For everyone involved it is a very emotional thing," said Chairman of the Governors, Ian Henderson.

Parent and Governor, Tracey Clipston, revealed how upset her own daughter and her school chums had been.

"They are devastated. They all love school. It has been such a happy place. The staff are brilliant and make a wonderful team.

"I have been connected with the school for six years and I know it has been hard work improving the building and providing all the work and play resources. It is so disappointing it has all been destroyed," she said.

Borough Council leader Peter Kent has added his reaction to the fire.

"The Council has been shocked and saddened by the news. The fire is a major blow to the community and we are extremely relieved no injuries were sustained.

"Our thoughts are with staff, governors, parents and children who are understandably deeply saddened by this tragedy.

"The council will continue to work closely with Cheshire County Council and assist in any way we can in this difficult time."

l Today, Thursday, the damaged school site was due to be visited by the Bishop of Beverley, the Rt Rev Martyn Jarrett.

As the Provincial Episcopal Visitor for the Province of York he looks after parishes in the north including Crewe.

He will also visit the Junior School and Crewe Christian Concern, Bentley Motors and the Leighton Centre before calling in on house-bound parishioners.

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