SCHOOLCHILDREN were devastated after a coach trip to Disneyland Paris was abandoned because teachers feared the driver had been drinking heavily.

The 29 pupils from Sir William Ramsay School, Hazlemere, were due to visit the theme park as part of a four-day package.

Teachers said the British driver had been drinking whisky late into the night and they cancelled the excursion.

A Buckinghamshire County Council spokesman said: "The children were already in France staying in a different adventure park in Hauteville.

"They were due to set off for Euro Disney at 7am on June 21, but teachers on the trip became concerned about the state of the driver who had been seen drinking whisky late into the night. They didn't think he was fit to drive and the security guard at the site agreed with them. The police arrived three hours later and agreed he shouldn't drive."

Another driver was sent from the coach firm, but it was too late for the trip. The first driver was breathalysed by French police at the request of his bosses in Britain. The test proved negative.

Tim Lambkin, managing director of Kent-based Timms Travel, said the driver was suspended pending a French police report. Mr Lambkin said: "When the drivers are away from base they are their own bosses to a certain extent, but at no time are they to indulge in alcohol in their 11-hour rest period."

He said the children have been offered a free trip to Disneyland Paris or a full refund.

School headteacher Bill Richards said: "Our main concern has been the safety of our pupils. I am very proud of the way my staff dealt promptly and decisively with the problem."

Jamie Gardiner, manager of travel company Acorn Venture, which organised the trip, said: "The driver shouldn't have been drinking on a tour. We got another driver out straight away. The safety of the children was at no time at risk."

Linda Whalley, whose daughter was on the trip, said: "Obviously the children were disappointed not to get to Disneyland, but the staff made sure the alternative activities were most enjoyable."

It is hoped agreement on compensation can be reached today.

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