SETTLE'S new primary school is racing against time to open its doors to pupils on Monday as planned.

The construction work is completed but some vital equipment failed to be delivered this week and a decision will be taken today (Friday) on whether the school can open as scheduled on Monday.

Parents will be contacted if there is any delay but chairman of governors Rev Stewart Ridley said he was still hopeful that the opening would go ahead as planned. If there is any delay, it will only be for a short period.

There have been rumours all summer that the school would not be ready in time but until Wednesday head Ian Parker was confident the timetable would be met - until certain vital deliveries failed to appear.

Staff moved in boxes of equipment, books and files into the county's most modern primary school this week.

The county education authority has spent £1.5 million on the school, in which every classroom will boast modern interactive whiteboards enhancing class lessons and invaluable for helping children learn IT skills. Equally impressive is the provision of a purpose built nursery catering for 26 children and the longed for sports field.