A LEAVERS’ ceremony at Dunbar Grammar School, which was due to take place today (Friday), was cancelled after confirmed coronavirus cases at the school.

An “extra-special” event was being planned for S6 pupils who were leaving the school after “the most extraordinary year”.

However, Claire Slowther, headteacher at the secondary school, confirmed yesterday evening (Thursday) that the “incredibly difficult decision” to cancel the event had been taken.

That comes after parents and carers were alerted to confirmed cases of coronavirus at the school, which follows on the heels of cases also being confirmed at Dunbar Primary School.

A spokesman for East Lothian Council said: “Everyone who has been in close contact with a confirmed case has been identified, contacted and advised to stay at home and self-isolate, and to get tested.

“As an additional control measure, it has been requested that school age siblings of these contacts should also isolate and test.

“The school has multiple control measures in place against Covid-19, supported with regular testing of staff, to limit any risk of onwards transmission.

“The school otherwise remains open in line with current Scottish Government guidelines.

“If a child has not been advised that they are a close contact and remains well, they can continue to attend school as per the school’s current arrangements.

“Unfortunately, based on health advice, it has been decided that Friday’s S6 leavers' ceremony will be cancelled.

“We appreciate this will be disappointing to young people.

“The school is hugely proud of the pupils and wishes to recognise their significant contribution and positivity.”

A year-group photograph was being planned, as well as the chance for pupils to enjoy pizza and juice, and chat with members of staff.

The council spokesman added: “The situation will be re-assessed in due course and the school will consider appropriate alternative arrangements and include the opportunity to say a proper farewell, if possible.

“These plans will of course be communicated to those involved.”

Eleven of East Lothian’s 29 positive coronavirus cases from May 24 to 30 were in Dunbar.

READ MORE: Spike in coronavirus cases in Dunbar

Three of those were in Dunbar East – which includes Spott Road and the town’s train station – giving it a seven-day positive rate per 100,000 people of 64.4; with the remaining eight in Dunbar West – which includes Belhaven, North Road and both of the town’s schools – giving it a seven-day positive rate per 100,000 people of 146.1.