A PRIMARY school in Stourport-on-Severn had to be evacuated after it was struck by lightning, causing a fire.

Pupils from Wilden All Saints School in Wilden Lane, were taken to a nearby village hall after the school was hit shortly after 1.45pm today (Tuesday May 9).

The youngsters had just undertaken their SATs exams when the strike happened.

Parents were informed and told to collect their children from the hall.

A firefighting crew from Wyre Forest Fire Station attended and said the small fire had affected the telephone system.

No other damage was reported.

Thunderous storms hit the region this afternoon but despite the rain and lightning, no major damage was reported.

Sarah, whose son Jamie attends the school said he had heard a "big bang" and a strike that "shook the school."

She told the BBC: "The children were taken to a safe place while the storm continued and we were asked if we could possibly pick the children up from school early."

Headteacher, Charlotte McDonald, said checks were continuing and the school would be open as normal on Wednesday.