A GAS piping problem at a Stevenage school has now been resolved, just days after the Comet raised the issue.

Flues used to transfer gases from four boilers at Marriotts Lonsdale School to the outside air were extended in height at the weekend to meet building requirements.

The work at the school in Brittain Way, which opened earlier this month, was due to be carried out over February half term by building contractors Balfour Beatty.

A spokesman for Hertfordshire County Council, which has overseen the build, said the work had been brought forward as the contractor had the necessary parts and labour to complete the job while the school was empty.

Last Thursday a former Balfour Beatty engineer raised concerns about potentially toxic gases coming into contact with students, following emails from an independent consultant seen by the Comet.

The contractor and Hertfordshire County Council dismissed the claims, and said there was no healthy and safety risk to students.