A MASSIVE lightning strike hit Droitwich Spa High School, in Briar Mill, at 9.50pm last Wednesday causing around £60,000 worth of damage.

A hole was blown out of the roof of the school's mathematics and Special Educational Needs block by the strike and a fire soon started in the roof space (see photo on facing page).

Headteacher Allan Foulds said: "The fire crews contained the fire and dealt with it superbly and efficiently. We have to pay tribute to them.

"It is only an early estimate but we think the damage could cost as much as £60,000. We should be alright and ready for a flying start to the new term come Wednesday, September 6.

"Thankfully the classrooms were not damaged and the fire was only in the roof space. If you can salvage anything from something like this then there is the fact that none of the children's work was damaged and because of the timing no one was around or hurt. We are highly grateful for that."

However, before the school strike fire crews had to rush to the Old Cock in Droitwich at around 8.30pm because a lightning bolt had also hit the aerial of the Friar Street pub.

As well as lightning strikes the Spa was also hit by flooding to the Saltway and in Queen Street.