A CHILD protection investigation has been launched at an Aberystwyth nursery after a three-year-old boy was left outside in a minibus for over two hours in sweltering 31-degree heat.

Camau Bach nursery on Boulevard Saint Brieuc, run by the charity Mudiad Meithrin, closed its doors for a week in the wake of the incident on Tuesday, 19 July.

Tuesday was the hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures in Aberystwyth soaring to over 31oC.

The boy was taken to hospital as a precaution.

A statement from Mudiad Meithrin said: “Following a serious incident today (Tuesday), when a child - without staff knowing - was left on a minibus for over two hours outside Camau Bach nursery, the matter was immediately referred to Care and Social Services Inspectorate and the local Safeguarding Board.

“The member of staff who was responsible for the child was instantly suspended from her work.

“A full investigation will follow and, in order to allow this, Camau Bach will be closed for a week.”

Ceredigion council said that the incident had been referred to officers and an investigation is under way.

“We can confirm that the matter is subject to an ongoing investigation in line with the All Wales Child Protection Procedures,” a council spokesman said.

“It would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this time.”

CSSIW confirmed that it has been notified of the “terrible” incident.

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