PARENTS in Blackpool may find they cannot get their children in a primary school of their choice because they are late applying for a place.

As the closing date for admission nears, hundreds of Fylde children are still without a primary school place.

And a late scramble for places could leave many mums and dads upset at the prospect of their child going to a school that was not their first preference.

Education bosses in Blackpool have warned that if a child turns five between now and the end of August parents should have already applied for a school for the next academic year, which starts in September.

They also point out that the longer families wait to apply, the less chance they have of getting a place.

Schools in the resort could also face problems in planning for the next academic year because so few children had been enrolled. Many schools are having to delay decisions about finances and staffing as they remain under subscribed. Blackpool education chief Coun Eddie Collett has urged parents to apply now for a place, to stand any chance of obtaining their preferred school.

He said: "I am dismayed that so many parents have failed to act early and beat the deadline to select a primary place.

"A child's first school is very special and a place that will provide fond memories for children as well as mums and dads.

"But many parents in the town may not get the school of their choice because they are so late applying, and the uncertainty that will follow if they miss the deadline can only give them added stress and heartache in the coming months."

Parents or guardians who would like to apply for a school place should call Blackpool Council's education department admission section on (01253) 476510.

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