Plea for privacy (From Penarth Times)

Plea for privacy

THE GRIEVING parents of tragic Vale student Stuart Cunningham-Jones have asked to be left to mourn in peace.

Dad David, mum Joanne and sister Angharad, have paid glowing tribute to the 12-year-old who died last Tuesday, when a service bus overturned on the A4222.

They released a statement earlier this week.

It reads: "Stuart was a very much loved son and a fantastic brother to his nine-year-old sister Angharad.

He was keen on judo and had just obtained his green belt.

He was a bright, studious boy who was very happy and content.

"He was a credit to his whole family, and will be sadly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

"We are all shocked and devastated to have lost Stuart in such a tragic accident.

We would ask the media to respect our privacy, so that our family can come to terms with this loss."

Local councillors and dignitaries have also expressed sympathy for all those suffering in the aftermath of the accident which saw nearly 20 children injured.

The local authority said they were 'shocked,' the bus owners, Llandow-based EST described themselves as 'devastated', and Cowbridge School said pupils were so upset that counselling would be available as long as is necessary."

Vale of Glamorgan Assembly Member Jane Hutt told the News: "This is devastating news for the families involved, for the school and the local community."

A tragedy like this hits us all, but my thoughts go out especially to the family of Stuart and all those whose relatives were injured."

She added: "It is vitally important for us to find out why this accident happened and to learn lessons from it."

Conservative spokesman David Melding said: "I wish to offer my deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and friends of Stuart Cunningham-Jones.

"It will be necessary at national level to examine the whole question of school transport.

However, this week our thoughts and prayers are with Stuart's family and friends."