Three schools have closed in Ipswich and Colchester today after extreme weather caused burst pipes.

Murrayfield Primary Academy, attended by around 400 pupils in Nacton Road in Ipswich, has closed, according to the Suffolk County Council emergency school closure website.

A short statement for the closure reason says: “Monday 5th March due to a burst water main.”

Hillside Primary School, attended by around 600 pupils in Belstead Avenue in the town, is also closed, but Year 6 pupils are being taught at the nearby Stoke High School - Ormiston Academy.

The school managed to stay open every day last week, including the 7.45am breakfast club, despite the ‘Beast from the East’. Repair work is taking place at the school today.

Lee Abbott, headteacher, said: “I am so proud of my pupils and staff and the way in which their commitment, flexibility and attitude demonstrates a resolve to meet challenges head on and most importantly with a smile on their faces.”

Meanwhile, in Colchester, Myland Community Primary School has closed. It is attended by around 336 in Mill Road, off Mile End.

A statement on the Essex County Council emergency school closure website states: “Unfortunately, School is closed to pupils on MONDAY 5th MARCH due to damage to the heating system caused by burst pipes and flooding.”

Last week, blizzards and sub-zero temperatures caused hundreds of school closures between Wednesday and Friday.

Schools under ‘more pressure than ever before’ to stay open when it snows, says headteacher.

Headteachers defend opening schools and praise ‘amazing’ staff and ‘mental strength’.

Check back for updates.