AN MP has stepped in to try and resolve a dispute between a pregnant 16-year-old and her school over claims they had made her feel like a leper.

Nina Dixon has been kept at home since the middle of October by her mother in protest at what she called "over the top" health and safety rules at Darwen Vale High School.

Now Greg Pope, MP for Hyndburn, has written to the school and Blackburn with Darwen Council in an attempt to resolve the situation.

But Nina's mum, Caroline, of Duckworth Hall, Oswaldtwistle, said that, despite the move, she did not want her daughter to go back to the school.

The pupil is 17-weeks pregnant by her 17-year-old partner.

After a "risk assessment" the school imposed a series of conditions on Nina's time at school. Her mother said these were "completely over the top".

Conditions included Nina having to remain in the classroom while pupils change lessons, going to a specified room at break time and lunchtime and being accompanied by staff when going to and from lessons .

The school insisted safety of pupils was a priority.

Mr Pope said: "I am asking them to have another look at the case and see if a compromise can be found to help Nina to complete her education.

"The important thing is that Nina should be able to go back to school very quickly. She is in year 11 and has GCSE exams coming up.

"I want to get it sorted. Education is crucial for Nina but the safety of her child is also important."

Mrs Dixon, 56, said she was pleased Mr Pope was speaking to the council. But she said her daughter would not return to Darwen Vale.

She said: "She won't go back, absolutely no way.

"I want education for my daughter, preferably I want her go to Blackburn College to do something like a beautician course and do her GCSEs the next year.

"She would be uncomfortable doing her GCSEs now. How can she possibly catch up on 12 weeks' work?"