ALMOST 200 schools in Worcestershire contain asbestos, according to official figures.

This has led to claims of safety concerns from some quarters.

But Worcestershire County Council has reassured the public that all asbestos in the 180 affected schools is managed in line with an approved code of practice and that any potentially hazardous material is removed as part of an ongoing programme.

Councillor Liz Eyre, cabinet member for children and families at Worcestershire County Council, said: "There are around 180 schools supported by the county council which are currently recorded as having asbestos containing materials.

“All buildings have been surveyed and we manage the asbestos in schools in accordance with the approved code of practice to ensure that we comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

“Anything considered to be potentially hazardous is being removed under an ongoing programme."