School ravaged by fire in 2022 to close permanently

A fire-ravaged school will permanently close after the plans were given the go ahead, despite a campaign to save it.

Manorbier Church in Wales VC School in Pembrokeshire was damaged by a blaze that started in the building's roof in October 2022.

A temporary "school from school" was set up in Jameston Village Hall and more than 1,500 people had signed a petition on the council website calling for the school to be rebuilt, with one councillor saying "we have let all these good people down".

Councillors voted 30 to 23 in favour of formally discontinuing the school at a meeting on Monday.

It was recommended in a report presented by deputy council leader Paul Miller that the school be closed.

Councils were asked to consider the 62 objections received in respect of the proposal to discontinue the school.

Councillor Phil Kidney, a staunch supporter of keeping the school open, thanked campaigners and the dedication of the staff, including head teacher Sharon Davies.

He said: "The way this authority has treated her and the staff is quite frankly amazing - we have all let these good people down."

Miller said his only consideration was "the future welfare of the children" and that none of the 20 pupils would have to travel more than 2.1 miles as a result of the closure.

Kidney disputed that claim, saying it was closer to 3.5 miles.

Posting after the decision, the Friends of Manorbier School said: "The children, staff, parents and wider community have been waiting far too long for a decision.

"While this outcome was not unexpected, it is still hard to hear those final words spoken aloud."

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