MORE THAN a dozen Bradford schools have now been affected by the district norovirus outbreak.

Neighbouring Horton Grange Primary and Farnham Primary in Lidget Green were yesterday the latest schools to be closed.

They were due to open after a deep clean on Monday.

Other schools where pupils and staff have been affected over the past few weeks are Holycroft Primary School, Keighley; Oastlers School, East Bowling; the Primary Pupil Referral Unit on Avenue Road, West Bowling; Appleton Academy, Wyke; Beckfoot Oakbank; Horton Park Primary; Beechcliffe Special School; Canterbury Nursery School and Centre for Children; Whitcliffe Mount School, Cleckheaton; Chellow Heights Special School; Holy Family Catholic School, Keighley; and Parkside School, Cullingworth.

Ian Murch, President of the National Education Union in Bradford, said: "We are hearing that there are significant issues with the extent of norovirus in Bradford schools at the moment.

"It spreads quickly and most of the spreading comes within the school. So, schools where it gets a grip do need a period of closure long enough to stop the spread. 48 hours is usually recommended."

"Training and support in maintaining hygiene is also crucial. Pregnant women and staff with health issues should also be kept away from an outbreak."