Drama in 1970: Thornhill School and the massive fire which closed it 55 years ago

On June 5, 1970, part of the £1million Sunderland building was left in smouldering ruins after a fire.

Flames ripped through the top floor of a science, art and commerce block at Thornhill School.

All pupils except those taking final year exams were sent home as staff tried to come to terms with the damage. The whole roof was alight before it collapsed.

Yet somehow, two thirds of the block were back in use by the time pupils returned after the six weeks holidays.

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