A SEVERE flooding incident has closed Alder Grange High School, Rawtenstall.

All 650 students have got today off classes after a burst pipe let thousands of gallons of water spill into the dining area.

Water got into the electrical circuits, resulting in the decision to close the school until Monday when things should be back to normal.

A number of community groups were in the school when the burst happened shortly after 7.30pm last night.

Head teacher Iain Hulland said: "It could have been a lot worse.

"Fortunately the evening caretaker was on hand. Members of local groups including Rossendale Band who practise here gave a helping hand in tidying up and the fire brigade were brilliant.

"They were here quickly and helped with the initial mopping up."

Local people helped to move a delivery of new books from the foyer to prevent them being damaged. "It was excellent the way people responded." he added.

The problem was caused by a burst at a feeder pipe which flooded the dining area.

Fire and rescue service Sub Officer Nick Clough said: "Water was two to three inches deep. An appliance from Rawtenstall and a special unit from Burnley were there for one and a half to two hours helping to remove the water."