TWO BUSES carrying pupils from Ardrossan Academy to Alton Towers have been involved in a collision.

The incident happened approximately 15 minutes from the theme park shortly after 8am on Thursday, May 26.

North Ayrshire Council confirmed that there were 89 pupils – from first, second and third year – along with staff on board the two buses at the time.

As a precautionary measure, paramedics were called and five pupils received treatment for superficial cuts. Paramedics confirmed that they had no concerns about any of the pupils or staff.

A local bus company stepped in to take the pupils on to Alton Towers.

Ardrossan Academy Head Teacher Lisa Chalmers said: “Parents should be reassured that pupils have been thoroughly assessed by paramedics and no one has suffered any serious injuries although five pupils have received treatment for some minor cuts.

“Although the paramedics made it clear that all pupils were fine to travel on to Alton Towers, we have opted to be cautious and taken the decision that no child would be allowed on any of the rides until we had explicit approval from a parent or immediate family member.

“I would like to thank the pupils and our staff, as well as the paramedics who attended and also the local coach company who stepped in to ensure the children were able to make their way to the park after the accident.

“The spirits of the pupils and staff are high and they are still determined to enjoy the outing. New coaches are being provided to bring the pupils home and we expect the return arrangements to remain the same.”