Calderdale headteacher's plea as police ramp up arson investigation at school

A headteacher is appealing to the public for help after a blaze at a Calderdale village school.
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West Vale Primary School, on Stainland Road, saw a storage unit on fire on Monday evening, which housed thousands of pounds worth of outdoor learning equipment, resources and toys.

The school, which is open only to children whose parents are key workers, are unable to replace the vital kit because of a lack of funds.

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Headteacher Fiona Gardiner said: “It’s so upsetting with all that’s going on in the country.

West Vale Primary School in HalifaxWest Vale Primary School in Halifax
West Vale Primary School in Halifax

“We can’t replace the equipment quickly as our suppliers are closed and we’re unable to fundraiser because of the current situation and also we have no allocated funds in school to replace the equipment.

“If anyone can help with replacement resources or donations we’d be very grateful.”

Firefighters were quickly on the scene to prevent the blaze from spreading to the main building.

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A fire crew and police attended the incident, while police are investigating as an arson attack.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: "Police were called during the morning of April 7 regarding a fire at West Vale Primary School in Halifax on Monday evening.

"A crime of arson has been recorded in relation to the incident in which a storage shed was set on fire between 7.30 and 8pm."

Anyone who has any information about the fire should contact Halifax Police on 101 referencing crime number 13200172809.

Information can also be given online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat or anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.