SCHOOLS, businesses and visitor attractions across Wiltshire are changing opening hours and, in some cases, closing altogether as a rare Red Extreme Heat Warning takes effect this week.

Stonehenge School has announced early closures today, tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday, with pupils finishing at 12.20pm each day.

The school said the decision followed updated weather guidance and the introduction of a Red Heat Health Alert for the area.

St Joseph’s Catholic School in Salisbury has gone further, remaining open today but closing to Years 7, 8 and 9 tomorrow (Wednesday).

The school will then close completely on Thursday before reopening on Friday. Year 10 mock exams will continue in air-conditioned rooms.

South Wilts Grammar School has opted to remain open but has introduced a series of measures, including moving students into cooler classrooms, allowing PE kit throughout the week and cancelling its Year 12 Taster Day on Wednesday. Sports Day has also been postponed until June 30.

Amesbury Archer Primary School has confirmed that it will shut tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday, advising parents to consult the class charts for more information.

The heat is also affecting businesses, charities and support services.

The Spitfire Café at Cross Keys announced it would close today, saying staff welfare was its priority.

The Old Sarum and Longhedge Pantry foodbank has confirmed it will remain open tomorrow, but with reduced hours from 9am to 11am only due to the extreme heat.

The kitchen will be closed for safety reasons, although takeaway cakes and pastries, along with cold squash and water, will still be available to visitors.

Popular early years session Wriggly Rhyme Time at Salisbury Library on Thursday afternoon has been cancelled due to the ongoing extreme heat warning.

Organisers apologised for any inconvenience caused and confirmed the session will return on Thursday, July 9, when they hope to welcome families back as normal.

Meanwhile, the National Trust’s Stourhead estate is shortening opening hours, closing at 2pm today, 1pm tomorrow (Wednesday) and shutting completely on Thursday, before reopening on Friday.

Salisbury Trust for the Homeless has announced reduced opening hours at its Fisherton Street office this week to help keep staff, volunteers and visitors safe during the extreme temperatures.

The office will be open from 9am to 12.30pm today, tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday, although support will continue to be available until 5pm by email at help@stfh.org.uk or by phone on 07929 073452.

The charity is also reminding residents who see anyone sleeping rough during the hot weather to contact Wiltshire Council’s Rough Sleeper Team so help and support can be provided.

Wiltshire Council and health officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, keep homes cool and check on elderly relatives, neighbours and other vulnerable people.

People travelling are also being warned to expect disruption, with rail services across the region running reduced timetables due to the extreme heat.

* We will update you with any further closures or reduced hours as they come in…