SCHOOL building bosses have vowed to plug the source of disruptive roof leaks at Woodbank Primary once and for all.

A new roof is on its way after recent water damage forced Reception pupils to vacate their classroom.

The leaks were the latest in a series of roofing problems at the Brandlesholme Road school.

Problems grew so bad in the last month that Reception pupils had to be taught in the school hall and lights could not be switched on.

A tennis tournament and theatre event had to be cancelled due to lack of space and there were fears that leaks in other classrooms might compound the problem.

Parents, who complained to head teacher Mr John Wood, have slated education chiefs over repairs.

Mrs Julie Bryant, whose seven-year-old son is a pupil, said: "A lot of parents are getting rather cross about all the disruption to the children.

"The problem doesn't seem to be with the school. They are doing the best they can."

And mum-of-two Clair Plant said: "I feel sorry for the teachers as well because they are having to put up with these conditions and teach children at the same time."

Mr Wood, who declined to comment, sent a letter to parents promising a new roof by the summer.

Short-term patch-up work took place during the half-term holidays, and the Reception room is now back in use. A comprehensive report on the problems will be drawn up before a full programme of repairs begins.

Paul Cooke, Bury Council's head of schools planning, said: "There are a number of different problems relating to the design of the roof, how it was installed, and how it has been adversely affected over the years.

"We have carried out a number of actions over the space of around 12 months but in each case leaks have manifested themselves elsewhere.

"The recent extensive survey has identified a number of problems that will need us to re-roof a significant part of the school.

"We intend to minimise any disruption this may cause to staff and pupils."