A MAJOR gas leak has forced two Hampshire schools to close.

Fair Oak Junior School and Wyvern College, in Botley Road, Eastleigh, have closed for the day with immediate effect.

Sue Long, from Fair Oak Junior School, told parents in a statement: “We have had to respond to changing instructions as the morning progresses. We have now been instructed to close the school with immediate effect.

“Children will remain safe in class until you are able to collect them.”

A statement from Wyvern College said: “Owing to a major gas leak, Wyvern College has had to carry out an emergency closure of the college.

“Parents have been informed via Parentmail and via students phoning home.”

"Tutors are currently overseeing students calling their designated emergency contact and ensuring that they safely leave the site. Any students who cannot make contact with their designated emergency contact as per page 8 in the logbook will be kept at the college until they can contact someone.

"The nursery and activate and all lettings are closed for the remainder of today, but we are anticipating that they will be back open as normal tomorrow but please check the website and answerphone.

"If you are coming to the production tonight, please watch the website and Parentmail for further information. The gas leak is currently being dealt with and we will make decisions relating to the production once we know more."