Four Harlow schools will close for two weeks as part of measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.

Passmores Co-operative Learning Community, the academy trust which runs the four schools, announced the decision in a letter to parents today.

Passmores Academy, Potter Street Academy, Purford Green Primary and The Downs Primary and Nursery will all close at 3.30PM on Friday, March 20 for two weeks, leading into the Easter holidays.

In the letter, Vic Goddard, co-principal of Passmores Academy, said: “Please be patient as a great deal more information will be sent to you by your individual schools over the next few days to support the continuation of learning for your child.

“This has not been an easy decision but it is the correct course of action considering all factors. This is not because of any confirmed case across any of the schools at this point.

“We have really appreciated your support during this incredibly difficult time and wish everyone the best of health - please look after each other.”

Currently, the UK government is advising schools to stay open.

However, the government's chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, yesterday told MPs (March 17) that closing schools was still "on the table".

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