Two schools shut down over 'asbestos in sand' fears after 39 products recalled

Two schools have been forced to close down with tests underway to see if asbestos has been present in play sand used in classrooms. The closures, at Beacon Hill school and Silverdale school in North Tyneside - come after dozens of products feared to contain asbestos were recalled by supermarkets and high street stores across the UK. Almost 40 items were pulled from the shelves at retailers including Tesco , Primark, Smyths Toys, Aldi , Argos, Asda and M&S . Products were found to contain the substance, according to recall information on the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) website posted in April, reports Chronicle Live . Asbestos, once widely used for its heat and fire resistance, is now known to be highly dangerous, with fibres that can become lodged in the lungs for life and lead to illnesses such as asbestosis mesothelioma and lung cancer. This is a Breaking News story. You’ll be more likely to see our stories when any big news breaks in future by simply by clicking this link . You can also join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News , TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads - or visit The Mirror homepage .