A PRIMARY school has issued an apology after sending a letter to parents raising concerns ice cream van staff were photographing children.

In an apology letter provided to The Mail by the business yesterday, Vickerstown Primary School acknowledged it had made an ‘error in judgment’ when it circulated a letter highlighting concerns being raised by a parent about people working for a Walney ice cream business ‘photographing children’.

The follow-up letter said the allegations ‘towards the business and its employees were completely unfounded’ and apologised for ‘any distress and anxiety’ caused.

Cumbria Police also confirmed no offences have been committed.

Mohammed Ramzan, whose family business Just Desserts owns a number of ice cream vans based on Douglas Street, said the original letter had both damaged his business and put his family in ‘danger.’

Known locally as Mo Rammy, the 39-year-old said it was clear from the letter that the school was addressing him and his business because ‘there’s nobody else on the street.’

“It’s horrific,” said Mr Ramzan. “They practically named our business - putting us in danger.

“I’ve got a 15-year-old and a 19-year-old. I’ve been in this town 10 years and I’ve had several businesses. It’s not nice and it’s horrendous.”

When asked about the claims staff from his business had been photographing children Mr Ramzan said it was “ridiculous”.

He said: “After the police looked into it, it turned out that the person who first raised concerns has an axe to grind.”

He also said that the original letter has affected his business and the family has also received threats.

Mr Ramzan’s wife Nicola said: “We are devastated about what has happened and this constant barrage of accusations that are all untrue.

“We will not be bullied and stand firm as a family and a business.”

The school’s apology letter, signed by co-head teacher Michelle Phizacklea, said: “We have been in close discussion with Barrow Police and, after a thorough investigation, school have been informed that the allegations towards the business and its employees is completely unfounded and there was nothing more to it.

“The safety of our children is always paramount and we take all concerns seriously. However, on this occasion, we have made an error of judgement and issue a full retraction and apology to the business and its employees. The reason for the delay in this letter was due to school requiring clarity from legal services.

“We apologise for any distress and anxiety that this matter has caused to all parties involved.”