Aberdeenshire Council has ended its contracts with two bus operators on specified school routes after three vehicles failed inspections.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) carried out checks on seven companies that transport children to and from Meldrum Academy on Thursday, January 25.

The council cancelled its contracts with coach operators J&M Burns and Kineil Coaches after one bus was ruled not roadworthy and two others needed repairs before they could be classed as fit for use.

Councillor Gillian Owen said: "The council takes the safety of children extremely seriously and this includes when they are being transported to and from school.

"It was therefore important that the council acted swiftly and robustly in terminating the contracts of these buses."

The contract will end on February 14, however the bus companies concerned have the right to appeal the decision.

Aberdeenshire Council is also considering applying penalties to Watermill Coaches under its performance management policy.