06 Mar 2026
Fleetville schools have issued a warning to parents not to let their children walk home alone today after rumours of an inter-schools fight in Morrisons car park.
Posts on social media have been encouraging young people from different secondary schools to meet outside the store this evening.
Schools are divided into “Red” and “Blue” sides, and pupils from Years 7 to 11 are encouraged to fight rivals at a determined location, possibly using bladed weapons.
Fleetville Junior School headteacher Clare Whitehouse said: “We know you will share our concern about keeping children safe so are providing you if possible, do not allow children to travel home from school on their own.
“Please keep children at home on Friday evening, unless they are attending an organised activity with you taking them to and from it. Even children who do not intend to be involved could be caught up in the situation.
“We are sorry to have to write to you about this. Our aim is not to worry you, but to work together with families to keep all children safe. If your child usually walks home alone, please try to collect them after school or arrange for another trusted adult to do so.”
Jennifer Gardner, headteacher of Fleetville Infant and Nursery School, added: “Our pupils are primary-aged and are very unlikely to be involved. However, we know parents will appreciate being aware of what has been discussed locally.
“Secondary schools are addressing the issue with their parents and the police have been informed and are expected to have an increased presence in the area…
“Our aim is simply to keep families informed so that, together, we can ensure children remain safe.”
A Herts police spokesperson said: “We are aware of posts on social media where school children are being encouraged to participate in fights within Hertfordshire and other areas of the country. We are in contact with schools, and officers from Neighbourhood Policing Teams are always on hand in the community. Anyone with information is asked to report it online or via 101. Additionally, if you have any concerns, please speak with our officers who will be happy to help.”
