A primary school in Eastbourne has opened to pupils despite fears that building work would not be finished in time.

When the foundations of The Haven Primary School in Atlantic Drive, Eastbourne, were laid in January there were concerns that the school was six months behind schedule.

But head teacher Pat Lock was always confident the school - jointly run by the Church of England and the Methodist Church - would be ready for the start of the autumn term.

She said: "There was no doubt that the school would be open on time. The builders have been excellent and worked very hard.

"They desperately need school places in the whole of Eastbourne for all children, right the way through to children with special needs.

"We will be taking a part-time group of 32 next term and supporting teachers from other schools."

The school will be capable of taking 210 children and 32 with special needs.

Building work is due to finish in December when the junior school, entrance area and school hall will be complete.