15 Apr 2009

Arson at Hamilton primary school

1:22 pm on 15 April 2009

A fire that damaged a classroom at a primary school in Hamilton was deliberately lit, say police.

Firefighters were called to Hamilton East School school shortly before 6am on Wednesday.

More than 25 firefighters took about an hour to bring the fire under control, containing it to a single classroom.

Fire safety officer Kevin Holmes says the fire began outside the school block.

Police are investigating what they say is a clear case of arson and fire safety officers are also carrying out an inquiry.

Senior teacher Gaylene Bobsien says a great deal of work by staff and students has been destroyed.