Keith Grammar School to remain closed for repairs after tumbler dryer fire in Home Economics department

A secondary school in Moray is to remain closed for repairs after a tumble dryer fire broke out on Friday evening.

The blaze broke out around 7pm within the Home Economics department at Keith Grammar School.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service sent six appliances, including specialist resources to the school and spent around three hours bringing the fire under control.

People who were using the pool at the time had to be evacuated from the building while the power was disconnected, Moray Council chief executive Karen Greaves said.

She said: “Staff at the sports and community centre, who managed the evacuation of the swimming pool and centre calmly and efficiently during a particularly busy period when the electricity supply was disconnected as a safety measure, are also to be commended.”

It was later confirmed that the fire was not deliberate, but due to fire damage, the school would remain closed on both Monday and Tuesday.

Keith Grammar School is due to reopen on Wednesday, September 9.

A council spokesperson said that repairs were being carried out and the smoke affected areas were cleaned.

The Home Economics classrooms will be out of use, they added.

Council leader Kathleen Robertson said: “I would like to thank school staff for their swift work in establishing online learning arrangements and ensuring minimal disruption to pupils’ education.

“We would also like to thank pupils and families for their patience, understanding and adaptability as these arrangements were put in place.

“My sincere thanks go to headteacher Mr Duffy and the education staff who attended the school in the immediate aftermath of the incident and throughout the weekend.

“I would also like to acknowledge the professionalism of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland, who responded quickly after the alarm was raised.”