A SOUTHAMPTON school had to be evacuated after builders caused a gas leak.

Around 1,500 pupils had to be escorted off site after a pipe was damaged by contractors working on a new sixth-form centre.

Children and staff were today due to return to Bitterne Park School after missing a day and a half of lessons while the Copsewood Road school was made safe. Pupils have been advised to wear warm non-uniform clothing because the building is still without heating and bring packed lunches where possible because the school canteen will only be able to offer a limited service.

Emergency plans were put into action after the damaged pipe was found to be leaking on Wednesday afternoon, whilst contractors carried out work on the new £6.3m sixth-form, which will include a 120-seat theatre.

Council officers and British Gas teams were called in to help make the pipe safe and carry out other repairs.

A safety assessment carried out yesterday gave the site the all-clear, confirming there is no danger to the school or residents living nearby.