Pupils at Miers Court Primary School have an unexpected day off today after high winds caused damage to part of the school’s roof.

Firefighters from Medway fire station were called to the school in Silverspot Close, Rainham, at around 8.30am.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said a 25x5 metre section of the poly-carbonate roof was “severely damaged” due to high winds. The crew spent an hour at the scene making sure the roof was secure.

A spokesman for Medway Council said the damage was to a corridor which links separate parts of the building, and had not affected any classrooms.

Officers from Medway Council’s building control team will visit the school to assess the damage and provide advice on whether the school can reopen tomorrow.

Train passengers between Strood and Maidstone waited for up to two hours today after storm debris blocked the Medway Valley Line.

Commuters were frustrated until just before 10am at stations including Snodland, Halling and Cuxton.