MORE than 50 children had to take lessons in their school hall today after their classroom was gutted in an arson attack.

Vandals set fire to the reception class at Cherry Tree Primary, Farnworth, after smashing a window on Saturday night.

A worried neighbour rang the fire brigade after she noticed flames billowing from the school at the back of her house.

Headteacher Eric Brindle believes the fire may have caused at least £15,000 worth of damage.

But he said pupils, teachers and parents had vowed not to be beaten as they launched a cleanup operation.

He said: "It's absolutely awful when things like this happen.

"Our youngest children have been affected. They have not done anybody any harm at all.

"Computers, books, play equipment and even the children's art work has been damaged. The room stinks to high heaven."

He added: "But we won't let this setback stop us. We have all pulled together and have shown a great community spirit."

Mr Brindle was alerted to the fire at about midnight on Saturday. Children in the reception class had to have yesterday off school.

But a makeshift classroom has now been set up in the hall. Indoor games have had to be cancelled.

Fire spokesman Sub Officer Dave Smith said windows had been smashed at the school in Highfield Road and it is believed the fire was started deliberately.