A school in Hoo has shut following a suspected case of coronavirus.

Hoo St Werburgh Primary School asked teachers and students to go home earlier today.

In a letter sent out to parents, head teacher Emma Poad said: "Following consultation with Public Health England, with regards to a suspected case of COVID-19 at Hoo St Werburgh Primary School and Marlborough Centre, we are letting you know that the school will be closed for all staff and students effective immediately as a precautionary measure.

"This is a case which has been reported today and as a result we are acting as swiftly and promptly to provide you with this information.

"Whilst I fully understand this may cause anxiety within the school community, I can re-assure you that all necessary steps are being taken to minimise risks to others.

"The school are making arrangements for a deep clean with advice from PHE and we need to close the school to carry this out."

It comes as the number of coronavirus deaths in the UK rose to 71 today. There are 22 cases in Kent, four of which are in Medway.

Yesterday Prime Minister Boris Johnson issued a statement advising people to avoid social events, large gatherings and to work from home if possible but did not close schools.

Live events, sports matches and music concerts have been postponed or cancelled along with cinemas, shops and restaurants closing across the county.

It comes as officials confirmed there are a total of 18 confirmed cases in Kent and four in Medway.

Read more: All the latest news from Medway

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