PUPILS in the Borders will start learning from home shortly.

Scottish Borders Council has issued a statement following First Minister Nicola Sturgeon's announcement that schools will be closed from the end of the week.

The news comes as efforts to stem the outbreak of COVID-19 pick up pace.

A council spokesperson said: “The First Minister has announced that all schools and nurseries in Scotland are to close from Friday, March 20.

“We had not been made aware of this national decision in advance, but it is something we have been planning for locally as we continue to respond to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. We are planning for pupils to continue learning from home.

“The Deputy First Minister will tomorrow (Thursday, March 19) set out more detail surrounding the Scottish Government’s plans and the impact of this decision.

“We realise parents, pupils, staff and the wider public will have a number of questions in light of these developments and we will of course keep everyone up-to-date as more information is available.”