Firefighters battle a 'severe' blaze at a Peebles High School

Firefighters battled a "severe" blaze at a high school in the Scottish Borders.

Firefighters were called to Peebles High School just before 1pm on 28 November after reports of a blaze inside the building.

Six fire engines responded to the call and the school was "fully evacuated", with all pupils and staff accounted for during the incident.

The blaze is believed to have started in the art department.

Councillor Shona Haslam, leader of Scottish Borders Council, urged parents not to try to go to the school while emergency services need access.

On Twitter she said: "Fire at Peebles High School update. All kids are safe and sound. Parents please don’t try and go to the school. It will restrict access for emergency vehicles. Group call will be used as usual for communication. More info soon."

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 12.57pm on Thursday, November 28 to reports of a fire at Peebles High School, on Springwood Road, Peebles.

“Operations Control have mobilised six fire appliances and one height appliance to the scene, and crews remain in attendance.

“The school has been fully evacuated, and all persons accounted for.”.

A spokesperson from Scottish Borders Council said: "Pupils who live in the town are being taken to the nearby Priorsford Primary School. Pupils who use school transport are being taken to Peebles Parish Church and then on to their buses.”

“We have taken the early decision that the school will be closed tomorrow (Friday) and obviously also the St Andrew’s Day holiday on Monday.

“During this time we will liaise with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to ascertain the extent of the damage with a view to determining when the school can re-open and/or any alternative arrangements.

“Parents, pupils and staff will be informed through the normal channels.”