ASSURANCES have been given to parents after high levels of lead were found in a school water supply.

Education chiefs have also handed out bottled water to pupils at Ednam Primary School in Kelso.

The high levels of lead were discovered in taps at four wash basins during routine water testing last Thursday.

An immediate ban on drinking or using tap water was implemented.

And alternative catering arrangements were introduced.

Scottish Borders Council Chief Executive Tracey Logan told the Border Telegraph: “The action taken by the council is very much precautionary but it was felt important to immediately act in order to reduce any potential risks to pupils and staff."

As well as members of staff Ednam Primary School has a roll of 40 pupils and nine nursery children.

Following mid-term holidays later this month all pupils and staff will move to nearby Broomlands Primary to allow further detailed investigations and required repair works to take place.

Ms Logan added: “We are currently finalising arrangements for the move to Broomlands and we aim to ensure disruption is minimised as much as possible.

"We will also be keeping parents fully updated throughout this process."

Health chiefs don't believe there are any serious risks to pupils and staff.

Tim Patterson, Joint Director of Public Health for SBC and NHS Borders, said: “While the risk to public health is low, all parents and others affected have been provided with public health information to help answer any health-related queries they have.

“If any parents or staff have any significant health concerns, they are advised to contact their GP in the usual manner.”