SCHOOLS across Rochdale were set to close on Thursday (4 December) following a severe weather warning, though the council says that Healey Primary School will be open as normal.

Sue Brown, Head of Schools, Rochdale Council said: "Decisions to close schools are not taken lightly, but health and safety has to be the priority.

" In light of the snowfall expected overnight and significant transport disruption as a result, we have recommended that schools take this precautionary measure.

"All indications are that the weather will have improved by Friday when we are advising all schools to re-open. 

"To minimise disruption to the school calendar it is expected that the day will be made up for pupils by schools using one of their planned training days."

With snowfall in the main not as heavy as predicted, parents are urged to contact schools directly to find out if they plan to open.