The current cold snap is uncomfortable for primary school pupils in Welwyn, as their heating is out of action until boilers can be replaced.

Half of Welwyn St Mary’s School has been relying on temporary heaters since January 16, as two boilers are being replaced.

A parent who was not willing to be named told the Welwyn Hatfield Times: “My daughter is coming home cold, and they just have these silly little heaters. They are all running around in coats.”

But headteacher Mary Westley said: “Temporary heaters have been placed in all classrooms and these are working very efficiently.

“Parents were informed about this planned essential work in advance and we are hoping to complete the work as soon as possible. If any parents have concerns about this I would be happy to talk to them directly.”