THE final group of children returned to a middle school this week more than a month after it was closed because of an asbestos scare.

Year six pupils at Westacre Middle School, Ombersley Way, Droitwich, returned for the first time this term after contractors disturbed the deadly material during the Christmas break.

The damage happened when contractors carrying out maintenance work broke through asbestos seals around classroom doors, meaning the school could not open at the beginning of the year.

The Worcester News reported in January how students were bussed to Redgrove School, Stoke Prior, and Birchensale Middle School, Redditch, while year 5 children stayed at Westacre, but were taught in a separate design technology block.

Year 7 youngsters returned from Birchensale on January 31, but their year 6 counterparts only returned from Redgrove yesterday.

Last month we also revealed that school equipment, including books and computers, would have to be destroyed to prevent contamination, as well as schoolwork.

A county council spokesman said the school was still assessing the long-term affects to work and equipment caused by the contamination, He said: "The headteacher Christine Wilday told us that they've thoroughly enjoyed using the Redgrove building and that parents have commented on how their children have had a great time there."

Miss Wilday would not comment on the issue.