Youngsters have been left disappointed after the conflict between Israel and Gaza led to the cancellation of their school trip.

Students from King Solomon High School, in Forest Road, Barkingside, were due to travel to Israel this week, but interim headteacher Dr Paul Doherty made the decision to cancel because of the volatile situation there.

He said: “I consulted with the chairman of governors and others and decided that the situation was too dangerous.

“I spoke to friends in Tel Aviv and people were being evacuated.

“I wrote a letter to parents expressing my deep regret and how I felt I had no option but to cancel.”

Three members of staff and 42 Year Nine and Ten pupils had been due to set off on the two-week holiday.

Dr Doherty said: “It was going to be a very great cultural and religious experience. I talked to some parents and there was relief as it really would have been a bit too dangerous.

“We have promised that we will try and give the children some sort of treat.”