AFTER 132 years of educating children, Ripple School closed on Tuesday with a dire warning from its chairman of the governors.

Andy Roberts, who was twice involved with its fight for survival, believes all similar-sized schools could be in danger of closure.

He said: "I recommend that all other small schools that have survived this round of closures watch their backs."

Head teacher Martin Harper said: "Our priority over the last few months has been making sure that all the children have a place for September and as many staff as possible found new jobs."

* SEE THURSDAY'S EAST KENT MERCURY FOR MORE DETAILS.