William, 6, wades in to help save school

Photo: Anthony Miller

WATER hero . . . William Fairhurst helped to save his school from flooding.

WHILE most children were playing with their new toys over Christmas, Shaw youngster William Fairhurst was busy helping to save his school from the floods.

William and his parents Karen and Martin leapt into action when the water level around Rushcroft school rose in the unprecedented rainfall of Boxing Day. The school has a history of flooding and appropriate defences have previously been put in place. Despite these the water poured on to paths around the school and was in danger of getting into classrooms.

Mum Karen (32), a school governor raised the alarm and contacted the head teacher and caretaker.

“We couldn’t sit there and do nothing,” she said. “William was ready to rescue the school. “I don’t know any six year old with a room full of toys who would quite happily put them aside and get his wellies on and go out in the cold and rain. He loves the school and just wanted to help out. I’m proud of him.”

William helped clear paths and swept leaves from drains.

Karen and dad Martin (34), an electrician, used sandbags to keep the water away from classrooms before head teacher Jane Sheridan and colleagues arrived.

When the school opened again for the new term, William received a certificate at a special assembly for his hard work.

Ms Sheridan said: “I think it’s amazing. We’re just really proud of William.”