A HAMPSHIRE MP today issued an ultimatum to leaders of a Romsey school at the centre of sex abuse claims following a damning report.

A major police investigation is under way at Stanbridge Earls School after two former pupils alleged they were sexually abused there.

But an emergency Ofsted inspection report released today ruled that “serious weaknesses” remain.

Following the inspection the new interim head teacher Maggie McMurray was appointed to try to turn things around after former head Peter Trythall stood down last month.

Now Romsey and Southampton North MP Caroline Nokes has warned there will be no choice but to close the school unless improvements are made.

Ms Nokes said she would be contacting Government ministers to repeat her call for an inquiry to be held.

She added: “I am alarmed at the continued failings this latest inspection identifies.

“From the outset, I asked the school to urgently address the identified failings in order to continue its excellent teaching work, particularly for those who face exams this summer - continuity of education was, and remains, a legitimate concern.

“Clearly however, the changes it has made and the steps it has taken have been assessed as insufficient.

“Despite its undoubted teaching excellence, if the school cannot immediately make the changes needed to guarantee the safety of its pupils, then, despite the disruption it would cause to the vulnerable pupils it teaches, I regrettably agree with Ofsted - the school should close.”

The three day inspection was carried out on April 30 and it coincided with a Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection.

It reveals that children remain unsafe, staffing is inadequate, staff are not trained or experienced and there is a significant weakness in leadership.