LOSTOCK Hall High School could soon be opting out of education authority control if parents vote for the school to go grant maintained.

They have until January 29 to decide the future of the school. But getting though all the information has proved a political minefield.

They have been bombarded with propaganda from different political groups, each claiming their way is best for the school.

They have attended open evenings with different interest groups holding meetings simultaneously. The situation has become so confused that South Ribble MP Robert Atkins has lodged a complaint with Education Secretary Gillian Shephard claiming Labour has been turning the decision-making process into a 'party political bunfight'.

But Labour councillor Keith Berry argued: "We were defending the right of parents to have a balanced judgement." However chairman of the governors Mary Martin said: "I am quite upset about what's gone on. We just want what's best for the children."

She said the school had tried to ensure parents had all the information they needed. A final decision should be made next week.

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