Paramedics were called to a primary school after a number of pupils were stung by wasps.

The incident happened yesterday near to Chickerell Primary Academy when a wasp nest was disturbed on the children’s way to school.

Eight of the school’s pupils were stung and were treated by first aiders before being seen by paramedics as a matter of precaution.

A spokesman for South Western Ambulance Service said they received a call at 8.34am and one ambulance attended the scene.

Jody Harris, the headteacher of Chickerell Primary Academy, explained the incident was dealt with as ‘swiftly’ as possible.

She said: “Unfortunately on the way to school this morning, several of our children were stung by wasps from a wasp nest that had been disturbed.

“We would like to reassure you that medical treatment was swiftly received by those in need and pest control are en route, to dispose of the problem.

“We have spoken to all parents whose children may have been affected by this.”

Pupils were kept indoors until the incident was dealt with and children who received medical treatment remained at the school.

Miss Harris said: “We will be keeping the children inside today until such time that it is deemed safe to go out.

“Please be assured that the children are all safe and well and enjoying their school day.”

A number of school children were taken home by parents as a calming measure, but according to the Miss Harris the majority of pupils returned to the school throughout the day.