MY recent comments about the shortness of schoolgirls' uniform skirts prompted a response from a Leigh mum.

She tells me that from September the girls of St. Mary's High will be allowed to wear trousers for the first time -- but they can only be bought from four outlets as they must have the school badge embroidered near the waistband.

This also now applies to skirts as well -- to avoid pupils wearing very revealing gusset skimmers.

She says many people cannot afford the extortionate prices in these shops. For the cost of one skirt two could be bought from the market, but they won't have the badge embroidered on them.

A list she has received warns that anyone without the embroidered items will be sent home until they get the correct uniform.

All I can say is well done St Mary's. I hope you don't have to deal with too many stroppy parents.