School gas prank injures dozens

Updated 11.01 Fri May 11 2007

Keywords: Parrs Wood High School, gas, School prank

Almost 70 people needed medical treatment after a CS gas canister was discharged in a school prank, it has been revealed.

A total of 58 school pupils and staff were taken to the Manchester Royal Infirmary after the gas or similar pepper spray was released in a science block on Thursday.

"Our view is that it is an idiotic prank by someone in the school - probably a school pupil - that has had serious consequences" - Chief Superintendent Alan Cooper

Emergency crews were called to Parrs Wood High School In Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, when two members of staff suffered breathing difficulties and became ill after walking along a corridor in the science building.

More staff and pupils were also later affected by the chemical discharge and 69 people received treatment by paramedics at the scene, said an Ambulance Service spokesman.

Of these, 55 pupils and three adults were taken to hospital with minor injuries. Police are now investigating how the gas came to be discharged in the school.

Chief Superintendent Alan Cooper said: "Our view is that it is an idiotic prank by someone in the school - probably a school pupil - that has had serious consequences."

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said those injured suffered minor breathing difficulties, eye irritation and nausea.