TWO schools are at the centre of a norovirus alert after more than 150 pupils were struck down with sickness and diarrhoea.

Health chiefs are monitoring St Modan’s High School in Stirling and Cockenzie Primary School in East Lothian after many pupils are suffering from symptoms of the bug.

In a joint statement, Stirling Council and NHS Forth Valley confirmed that pupils had been suffering sickness and diarrhoea.

A spokeswoman said: “Samples are still being tested but symptoms correlate with those of norovirus, a common, self-limiting illness usually lasting up to 48 hours.

“Deep cleaning is being carried out daily in all areas of the school, which remains open.

“NHS Forth Valley is working closely with Stirling Council and the school, and letters have been sent to parents advising them how to prevent the spread of infection .

“It is important that pupils showing any signs of feeling unwell should not attend school and those who have been ill do not return until 48 hours after symptoms cease