Schools in Middlesbrough to close early as funeral held for man killed in A66 police crash
- Four schools in the South Bank area of Middlesbrough will close early on Friday due to anticipated transport disruption during a local funeral.
- The service is for 23-year-old Jakub Matusiak, one of seven people killed in an A66 crash on 22 August involving a police-pursued Volkswagen and an armed response vehicle.
- Large crowds, motorbikes, and quad bikes are expected to gather, prompting headteachers and the local council to close schools at midday for pupil safety.
- Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott condemned the decision as wrong and urged the Government to intervene so children do not miss out on their education.
- The closures follow a vigil last week for another victim of the crash, which drew criticism after cars were set on fire in County Durham.
More bulletins