Clackmannanshire schools to close and bin collections change for state funeral

Clackmannanshire Council has confirmed that parents and carers have already been advised that all schools and early learning settings will be closed on Monday, September 19, after a bank holiday was authorised for the date.

Families who qualify for free school meals will receive a direct payment into their bank accounts.

Waste collections will not go ahead on Monday and this will mean a change to all collections, including food waste, throughout the week.

Residents are being advised to present bins a day later than the usual due date, with one exception.

Brown garden waste bins due for uplift on Friday, September 23, will be emptied on the scheduled date.

Forthbank Recycling Centre will also be closed on Monday.

For emergencies only, contact the council on 01259 450000.

NHS Forth Valley has also confirmed that GPs will be closed on the day, re-opening on Tuesday, September 20.

Forth Valley Royal Hospital at Larbert

A number of pharmacies, dental practices and opticians will also be closed with people advised to check direct for arrangements.

Holm Pharm in Alva will be open between 9am and 1pm as well as 2.15pm and 5.45pm.

Lindsay & Gilmour Pharmacy in Sauchie will serve people between 9am and 6pm on the day.

People who take regular medication are being asked to ensure they order and collect any prescriptions in plenty of time to avoid running out.

Anyone requiring urgent healthcare advice or treatment can call NHS24 on 111, where a consultation or appointment can be arranged.

Operations, day procedures and outpatient appointments scheduled to take place on the day of the funeral will go ahead as planned, meaning patients should attend as normal.

Anyone looking to reschedule or unable to attend should contact 01324 566 249 or complete the online form at nhsforthvalley.com/cancel.

Vaccination appointments for Covid-19 boosters and flu jabs will also continue, however, anyone wishing to rearrange should contact the vaccination team on 0800 130 3120 in advance.

The Emergency Department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital continues to be exceptionally busy, explained the health board, and is there to treat patients with serious illness and injuries, such as suspected heart attacks and strokes.

Anyone with a non-life-threatening injury or illness should call 111, day or night.

It is understood a number of supermarkets will also be closed or will be open for a limited time, read more here.