PROTESTERS trying to save a popular primary school from the axe took their last chance to voice concerns as the final decision looms.

Regional adjudicator Professor Philip Hunter told a meeting about the future of St Paul's CE Primary School, Crow Lane, Ramsbottom, any decision he made would go before lawyers this week but that he hoped to have reached his decision by Friday.

He said anyone who wanted to make a representation could do so by fax or e-mail.

John Finden, speaking on behalf of the Church of England Diocese, went on: "With much regret I have come to the conclusion that St Paul's is not viable and that other schools are suffering because of the funding formula."

The school is threatened with closure because of falling numbers.

Bury Metro, which covers Ramsbottom, said it cannot continue to subsidise the school.

But members of St Paul's Focus Group dispute the local education authority's figures and are appealing against the closure plan.

The group believes new housing developments in the area and number of families moving in means the school has a healthy future.

Harold Williams, chief education officer for the Bury Education Authority, spoke out in favour of the schools closure.

But Chris Tallek speaking for the Schools Group said: "I can see no benefit at all in closing the school."

The focus group was given 20 minutes by the adjudicator to explain the case for keeping the school open.