PUPILS returned to their classes today as Bincombe Valley School opened for the first time since a major fire.

The 300 children trooped back to the Littlemoor, Weymouth, school a week late after a blaze gutted a block at the end of August causing £500,000 of damage.

Headteacher Les Strong today welcomed youngsters and paid tribute to the community for rallying around the fire ravaged school.

He said: "We are really pleased to be back.

"The children are glad to be returning and enthusiastic about getting back to lessons.

"It is all systems go and we are looking forward to getting back to normal."

He added: "It is good to see the children back. They are the spirit and light of the school."

The blaze broke out at the school's junior block in the early hours of August 26.

Contractors lowered three double classrooms and two toilet blocks into place as temporary accommodation so pupils could return to lessons.

They have fitted water, gas and electricity supplies as well as fire alarms over the past fortnight.

Now, about 160 pupils will take lessons in the classrooms over the next year.

Mr Strong said: "There will be a few changes to adapt to.

"But I'm sure the children will adapt very quickly."

He added: "The community spirit has been brilliant.

"There have been lots of good wishes and cards sent in."

Staff viewed the damage for the first time when they returned to the school last Friday.

A wooden fence has also been erected.

Now Mr Strong is to meet with Dorset County Council to discuss the future of the burned-out buildings.