Central Devon MP vows support for families after ‘devastating’ Okehampton school fire

A Central Devon MP has pledged support to families and staff after a ‘devastating’ fire destroyed a specialist school in Okehampton.

The Promise School, which serves around 100 children with special educational needs, will now be closed for the “immediate future” following Sunday (22 February) afternoon’s fire.

READ NEXT: Police ‘growing increasingly concerned’ for welfare of missing Devon teens

Conservative MP Mel Stride said he was “deeply saddened” by the incident.

“My thoughts are with the pupils, families, staff and the wider Okehampton community at what will be an incredibly distressing time,” he said.

“I want to pay tribute to our firefighters and emergency services for their swift and professional response, which thankfully ensured no one was harmed.

“I have spoken directly with the school Principal and stand by to assist with any support they require so that children and families have clarity and continuity in the days, weeks and months ahead.”

Incident commander Martin Sleigh, from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, confirmed the building is a “total loss”. 

Police have said the cause is not thought to be suspicious, with no reports of injuries and no one believed to be missing.

In a message to families, principal Quentin Gunderson described the fire as “serious” and said the school site would remain closed while alternative arrangements for ongoing learning are put in place with Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust.

Residents have been urged to avoid the area, with Exeter Road partially closed as emergency services continue their work.

Sir Mel said he would continue to liaise with the school and trust in the coming days as the community begins to respond to what he described as a ‘devastating’ loss.