A school's kitchen has been closed after environmental health officers discovered an infestation of mice.

Parents were worried their children's health was at risk after pupils came home to tell them there were rumours of a rat infestation at Portslade Community College in Chalky Road, Brighton.

Health officers closed the kitchen after an inspection on Friday, before calling in contractors to get rid of the mice.

Contractors were told to block off every gap where rodents could get in before carrying out a deep clean, making sure every surface was clean and free from food.

While the work is carried out, catering firm Scholarest has been preparing meals at neighbouring Mile Oak Primary School and carrying them to the college.

Principal Mike Tait confirmed there had been a problem with mice but it had been dealt with.

He said: "Like at home, during the winter we get field mice trying to come in because it's warmer and there's a more plentiful supply of litter.

"The contractors have been doing a deep clean of the kitchen and blocking off anywhere they can get in.

"We have had a problem with mice but it has been sorted out now and we've taken steps to make sure it can never happen again.

"Every surface in the kitchen has been cleaned to make sure there is nothing that could attract mice."

Several parents called The Argus to complain about the infestation.

One mother, who asked not to be identified, said: "I worked in that kitchen three years ago and remember seeing rodents there then. Obviously there's a problem and I think it should be taken seriously.

"You can't have these things running around where food is being prepared for children, it's disgusting.

"I wouldn't put up with having mice at home because it's dangerous for the children. I don't see why it should be any different at school."

Another parent said: "I know it's not the school's fault but I don't like to think of there being mice at a place my kids have to go to every day."

A Brighton and Hove City Council spokeswoman said: "The mice were discovered by the council's environmental health officers who took swift action to deal with the problem.

"The kitchen has been closed as a precautionary measure as our prime concern is to protect the health of children and staff.

"We have every confidence that the kitchen will be up and running again quickly and hope to reopen it on Tuesday."