STUDENTS from Launceston College have been sent home as a result of the significant smoke coming from a fire on the A30.

At around 11.40am today (October 15) police were called following reports of an HGV on fire on the A30 southbound near Pennygillam. While no injuries have been reported, the nearby school says it has been forced to close its doors.

Launceston College has reassured parents that all students and staff are safe, though smoke has spread to ‘approximately two thirds of the school site’.

A spokesperson from the school explained: “Following the incident involving a vehicle on the A30, there is a significant amount of smoke in the area surrounding the school.

“We would like to reassure everyone that all students and staff are safe and secure. We are working closely with the fire service and have moved our school community inside to buildings furthest away from the road.

“As the smoke has spread, we now need to avoid, where possible, approximately two thirds of the school site. We are therefore asking parents and carers to collect their child or children as soon as they are able to.

“ If you can collect your child, please come directly to the school and we will bring them to you.

“If you would like your child to walk home independently, please email [email protected] to confirm.

“If your child normally takes the end of day school transport or public buses and you are happy for them to remain inside the designated buildings until then, no action is needed.

“For students travelling home on a school run minibus, we are working to arrange for them to get home as soon as practically possible and will share further information as needed.

“We apologise for the short notice and any disruption this may cause. Thank you for your patience, understanding and support as we respond to the situation.”