A school has stepped in to provide transport for special needs pupils after a cab company ended its contract.

Parents were concerned they might have had to fork out hundreds of pounds a week to get their child to Elaine Education Centre in Strood.

As reported earlier this month, the boss of Lordswood-based Canada Cabs ended its school-run service saying it was a "logistic nightmare", leaving some parents with a dilemma on what to do next.

Owner Lorne Brown said the firm had only been hired by the council since September and encountered a number of issues.

He said: "It was a logistical nightmare. We had an increased number of students, different timetables and a shortage of drivers."

Single mum Jade Stevens told how she was quoted £60 a day to ferry her 10-year-old by taxi to the unit in Elaine Avenue from her Rainham home.

The self-employed mum-of-two said: "I simply couldn't afford it."

The 38-year-old added: "If I had to home school him I would not be able to work because his behaviour is too challenging."

The centre supports children who have challenges which can impact on their learning, specialising in social, emotional and mental health.

It caters for up to 36 primary aged pupils who have an educational health care plan.

The taxi firm finished its contract on March 10 but the situation has been resolved.

The school itself has taken over the transport for the majority of affected pupils.

There will continue to be some individual children transported by external providers.