Stonyhurst College run-aways back in UK today

Stonyhurst College came under the international media spotlight when the two 16-year-old sixth form boarders (who turned 17 while away) jetted off to the Dominican Republic after sneaking out of the prestigious Ribble Valley school in the dead of night and taking a taxi to the airport.

The news triggered a media frenzy and an international manhunt was launched. The pair were finally found safe and well by police in the resort of Punta Cana last Sunday evening, almost a week later.

It is understood Edward’s mother, who flew out to the Dominican Republic, will travel to England with the pair. On arrival they will be given a “welfare debrief” by police.

Mr Andrew Johnson, headmaster of the £30,000-a-year boarding school, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to report the two missing pupils have been found safe and well by police in the Dominican Republic.

“Staff and pupils at the college have been concerned for the safety of the two and are most grateful to parents and friends of Stonyhurst for their overwhelming support at this difficult time, and for their prayers for the safety of the two young people.

“Over the coming days we will be having discussions with the two young people and their families about what has happened and also what happens next.

“However, it is simply too early at the moment to speculate about the future.”