Pottery kiln link to school fire

More than 60 firefighters tackled the blaze at the school

A fire which wrecked a school in York started in a room which contained a high-temperature pottery kiln, early investigations have revealed.

Almost a third of York High School, in Dijon Avenue, was destroyed in the blaze earlier this month.

Fire investigators said the kiln had been used the day before and overnight on a programmed cycle.

The school is closed until November and pupils are being taught in temporary classrooms at other schools.

More than 60 firefighters tackled the blaze which started on the first floor of the main building next to the art room.

Fire officers said early investigations also indicated the school's fire alarm system did not include automatic detection in the rooms on the upper floor.

York City Council has said the school is not expected to be suitable for staff and pupils until 3 November.