During half-term around 28m of lead was stripped from Anthony Bek Primary School's main building –– allowing water to pour into classrooms and the main hall through the roof.

Headteacher Matt Freeston told Chad the school's caretaker discovered the lead had been taken on Friday morning and a temporary roof cover was put in place until further repairs could be carried out.

But following Monday night's heavy downpour, the temporary shelter collapsed under pressure and rain gushed into the building bringing down ceiling tiles and drenching carpets.

Derbyshire County Council chiefs have now confirmed the school will remain closed until 9th June.

Mr Freeston said he was forced to close the school because most of the building was covered in water.

"The hall is completely flooded and six out of eight classrooms are covered in huge puddles and broken ceiling tiles," he said yesterday.

"We have had to close the school while we sort out the damage to the ceiling, furniture and equipment and allow the building to dry out.

"Parents have been very supportive and are mortified that someone could steal lead from the school causing all this damage and disruption.

"Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have had lead stolen from the school. Last summer lead was taken causing damage to the building and a photocopier."

A Derbyshire Police spokesman told Chad the lead was taken between 4pm on Thursday and 8.30am on Friday.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 123 33 33 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.