Netherhall School in Maryport was closed this afternoon after students were drenched during a fire alarm.

A false alarm meant the school had to be evacuated and students and staff were forced to stand out in the bitter cold and pouring rain.

Head teacher David Tromans made the decision that they were unfit to stay at school.

He said on social media: All of the school students have been soaked to the skin.

"The fire drill was a false alarm and school will be open as normal tomorrow morning for registration at 08.35am.

"I am extremely sorry for this unavoidable inconvenience."