Pupils 'banned from watching solar eclipse' for cultural and religious reasons

A headmaster has admitted primary school children were banned from watching the eclipse for 'cultural and religious' reasons.

Council officials demanded an explanation from the head of the school in a multi-cultural suburb of west London.

Phil Belman, the father of a seven-year-old girl at North Primary School in Southall, rang the headteacher to express his anger.

Ealing Council confirmed the pupils were not allowed out of their classrooms but said they were able to see the eclipse on TV screens.

The headmaster, Ivor Johnstone, issued a statement saying he was sorry for any disappointment.