Parents urged to attend public meetings about school toxic gas scare after high levels of formaldehyde makes pupils ill

The school remains sealed off as the cause of the gas scare is investigated Credit: ITV News Central

Watch Chris Halpin's latest report on the school's toxic gas scare

Parents whose children have been off school all week because of a toxic gas scare are being urged to attend public meetings later.

It's after high levels of formaldehyde made children sick at Flash Ley Community Primary School In Stafford last Friday.

Classrooms had to be evacuated and lessons taught outside after around 20 pupils started vomiting and complaining of very sore eyes after a noxious gas was released.

It's thought the incident is connected to building work on floors in corridors carried out in the summer holidays.

Read more: Council pledges to investigate cause of toxic gas

It is unknown why the materials used apparently emitted the gas, which the council says is commonly used in construction and is usually safe.

Lessons are being arranged at two other sites while the school remains sealed off.

Children have been off school for a week since the gas leak last Friday Credit: ITV News Central

Tonight's meetings at Stafford Manor High School on Wolverhampton Road are expected to detail how Flash Ley's 400 pupils will be back in lessons on Monday.

Meanwhile a helpline has been set up for teachers and staff who are concerned about any lasting effects from exposure to the chemical.

Public Health England has reassured people that short term exposure to formaldehyde shouldn't cause any long term problems.

Read more: what is formaldehyde and is it dangerous?