A GROUP of sixth form students who were close to the Manhattan terror attack on Tuesday are safe.

The pupils of Lightcliffe Academy are spending half term Visiting Washington, Philadelphia and New York.

Activities have included laying a wreath at Arlington Cemetery, visiting the Supreme Court, Liberty Bell and the 9/11 Memorial Museum.

Daniel Stucke, vice principal of the academy said on Tuesday the group was several blocks away from the terrorist incident when it happened.

"They were incredibly well looked after by the New York Police Department, who helped them move further away from the area.

"A great deal of planning goes into all school visits, planning for any such eventualities. The staff and students responded brilliantly and followed the plans that were in place which enabled them to stay safe and let everyone back home know that they were well within a matter of minutes.

"The last two days of the visit will continue as planned but our thoughts and prayers are with all those directly affected by this terrible event. “