I NOTICE that several local schools are under threat of closure or amalgamation. One is the local village school at Affetside.

This news has impelled me to write this open letter to the members of the relevant committees, bringing to their attention the importance of this excellent school to the village community.

Affetside has just received a very good all-round Ofsted report and, although it may not be one of the most cost-effective schools in the borough, it certainly gives value for money, a point made by Ofsted. And its worth to the local community around Affetside cannot be overstated.

Therefore, I would ask our councillors and officials, when holding their meetings and making those difficult decisions, to please consider what I have written and spare this outstanding village school.

ERIC A. SHORTT,

Ramsbottom Road,

Walves, Tottington.