A fire-hit school is now almost as good as new.

Templars Junior School in Witham has nearly recovered from the suspected arson attack in April.

Two classrooms were completely written off in the blaze which left the library and stairwell with smoke and water damage. Repairs cost £300,000.

Clear up work began almost immediately and is due for completion within the first three weeks of the summer holidays.

Head teacher Julian Johnson said: "Things have been difficult. The demountable classrooms we used to provide replacement teaching space were brand new, but they were not ideal because as they are on stilts they vibrate and in the hot weather they are unbearable, even with the windows open."

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