Pupils will not be returning to school until later next week as clear-up operations continue following a major blaze at a nearby former social club.

Lawn Primary School in Northfleet was due to open earlier this week after half-term.

But it was forced to stay closed after asbestos was found in the debris from the fire at the Portlands building.

Crews were called to the High Street just before 11.30pm on Sunday (October 26), and at its height, eight fire engines, a height vehicle and a bulk water carrier were at the scene.

It was confirmed on Tuesday (October 28) that asbestos was found within the debris of the fire, although it was said there were “no significant health concerns”.

Specialist contractors started clear-up works in Factory Road and moved on to Lawn Primary School

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