PARENTS of disabled pupils at a Worcester school are celebrating after a council U-turn saved their school transport service.

The parents of children at Manor Park School, St John's, reacted with horror last month when the Evening News reported that Droitwich transport company Kestrel would not be having its contract renewed.

Many of the disabled children had formed strong bonds with Jenny Stevens, their escort on the bus, and were devastated by the news.

Their parents said any changes to the service could put their children in danger because of the nature of their behavioural problems.

Sue Carroll, whose 15-year-old son, Anthony, uses the service, said she was convinced parental pressure had forced Worcestershire County Council to rethink their decision.

"We are really pleased about it," said Mrs Carroll, of Clayhall Road, Droitwich.

"I'm pretty sure that without us digging our heels in, it wouldn't have happened.

"With media coverage also, I'm sure that gave them something to think about."

The transport service was due to be changed today, but will now carry on as normal.

A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council said officers looked at the situation again after parents raised concerns.

"We went through the process required by law to review contracts every few years, to get best value," he said.

"We offered it to a new firm, but parents raised concerns. We looked at these concerns, and we agreed with the parents. Kestrel were then reinstated."