14:02

Exam papers saved by firefighters

Firefighters were able to save exam papers after a blaze broke out in a classroom.

Around 40 firefighters tackled the large fire at Pendleton Sixth Form Centre in Salford after being called to the Dronfield Road site shortyl after 10am.

Crews wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire using hose reels, thermal imaging cameras and positive pressure ventilation fans

Group Manager Peter Lamb, Incident Commander at the scene, said: “Firefighters worked hard to tackle a severe fire located in a classroom on the top floor of the college.

“It was quickly brought under control and contained to the classroom involved.

“All pupils and staff are accounted for and are safe with no injuries.

“There is a small amount of water damage to the lower floors but we have stopped the fire spreading to other classrooms.

“We have worked with the college to enable students to re-enter the building – the electricity is back on, we have rescued the exam papers and exams will be able to go ahead as planned.”

The college said students who have an exam on Thursday should stay at college to sit the exam - all other students will be sent home.

Investigations are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.