The fight for a new junior school in Wickford was yesterday stronger than ever, as church education bosses offered their backing.

Mums urged diocesan director of education, Canon Peter Hartley, to help them find extra places for junior pupils in the town.

They have already given a 370-signature petition to Essex County Council to push for an extension on the existing Wickford C of E Infants School, in Mount Road.

During a meeting with parents at the school, Mr Hartley agreed there was a shortage of junior places.

He vowed to do all he could to get the ball rolling in the right direction.

Mother Tina Clark, who has a six-year-old in a local school, is now hoping to meet the school's headteacher to plan the next steps.

She said: "Mr Hartley did not say this could not be done.

"He said there were a lot of things which need to be established before any action will be taken. Apparently, because this is a controlled school, the church does not fund the building and development - that is down to the county council. It has to agree to any planning matters."

She added: "Mr Hartley said he will speak to the right people for us, as he believes it is in our interest."

Parents in the area are mostly concerned at the lack of Church of England education in the town.

Mr Hartley warned parents they would be better fighting for any junior provision rather than a specifically religious one.

Mrs Clark went on: "He told us the fact there were far too many children for the school places was a very valid point in our argument.

"He said we should concentrate on that. At least we did not come away with negative news.

"There is still hope. This is the first time we have spoken to anyone official about this other than the head.

"I would prefer my children to carry on in Church of England education."

Supportive - Canon Hartley speaks to parents

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

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