AN APPEAL has been launched to help youngsters at Kenton School after its library was hit by flooding.

The school was badly affected by the recent floods and the children have had to temporarily be relocated.

Among many buildings affected by the torrential rain and flooding, a clean up operation is underway at the village school.

In the meantime, a call has gone out for donations of book after many were destroyed when the school’s library was particularly affected.

Work has started trying to build up a replacement collection of books for the children ready for their return to the school.

Following the floods, the youngsters are being temporarily taught at nearby Kenn primary school.

Executive head teacher of Kenton School Lorraine Curry described the damage as ‘heart-breaking’.

She called it ‘catastrophic’ and ‘an absolute disaster for us as a school community’.

The damage is said to be so significant, there is no timescale when the children and staff can return.

But the staff have thanked volunteers and the community of Kenton for helping out in the aftermath in a big clear up and say they appreciate all the offers they have received.

A school spokesman said: ‘Even though the last few days have been very challenging, the kindness and support of the Kenton community has been overwhelming.’

The children have settled in well to their temporary home.

Year One class enjoyed a trip to Paignton Zoo while Oak Class explored Kent’s Cavern in Torquay.

But the school library was particularly affected and an appeal has been launched to replenish its book stock.

Anyone with good condition books, they would be grateful for any donations.

The school is looking for fiction books for years three to six, ages seven to 11; picture books for younger children and non-fiction, particularly in relation to history, geography, science, animals and plants.

Anyone who can help is asked to send photos of the books to Amelia Mansfield via Facebook Messenger.

As space is limited due to the flood, the staff will have to be a bit selective to ensure they are catering to all reading levels and avoid too many duplicates.