A group of pupils from a Coventry school are reported to be safe and well after being stranded on Exmoor last night.

The group of six 17-year-old boys from Coundon Court school set out together on an expedition as part of a Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award.

In total around 25 pupils were involved in the exercise, split up into several groups.

The teenagers, who were in the final group to leave their base, got trapped on the moor when the weather closed in, making it difficult to return to their camp.

They contacted Duke of Edinburgh leader Dave Russell and decided to set up camp for the night.

This morning they set off back to the camp. Although the weather was good it was decided to call the emergency services in to escort them.

A statement from Coventry City Council said all the youngsters had been trained for trip and had appropriate equipment, footwear and food with them.

They were expected to be back at home this evening.

David Kershaw, headteacher of Coundon Court, kept the teenagers’ parents informed throughout the ordeal.

Cllr George Duggins, cabinet member for Education, said:

“The youngsters, the Duke of Edinburgh leaders and the headteacher of Coundon Court should all be commended for their calmness and sensible attitudes throughout.

“However, the LEA will be keen to see if there are any lessons that need to be learned from this incident.”