A school has closed for the day, after a burst water main has knocked out reliable water supply to a town. 

Thirsk School and Sixth Form College, in North Yorkshire, has told parents they will not open today (Wednesday, November 6). 

A burst water main in the town centre has meant that the water supply to some buildings has been "low pressure or no water". 

A spokesperson for the Sowerby school said: "Having had water in school first thing this morning, it has now unfortunately gone off again.

"We have no other option than to close the school for today. If your child has set off for school there will be staff in school to receive them, but could you please arrange for them to be collected as soon as possible. 

"Sorry for the inconvenience caused. 

"For students sitting exams today, school will be open as normal and exams will still be on. 

"Please continue to read the school website for further updates. Please assume school us open tomorrow unless we tell you otherwise."

On their website, Yorkshire Water told customers: "We're really sorry but customers may have low pressure or no water in the area.

"We're working hard to get your water back to normal as soon as possible. Once it's fixed, your water may be cloudy or discoloured - you can clear this by running your tap for a few minutes."

It is understood that other schools affected by the water shut-off are also considering whether to close for the day, and will update parents directly as soon as possible.