SHAUN Woodward has pledged his support for the fight to keep a popular primary school open.

Earlier this month a consultation exercise was launched on the future of St Aidan's CE Primary in Clock Face.

Following discussions with parents, the chair of governors, Reverend Martin Thorpe, and community representatives, the St Helens South MP has submitted a response to St Helens Education Department urging them to allow the school to continue serving its community.

Mr Woodward wrote: "At a time when the Government is encouraging greater diversity and an expansion in religious schools, it seems extremely strange that a decision may be taken to close this excellent school.

"Over the last three years the number of children baptised in the local church adjoining the school, has increased from 13 in 1998 to 51 last year. I also know that the number of families moving into the area is significantly increasing and a new housing estate will only add to those numbers, thereby contravening projections suggesting pupil enrolment will continue to decline.

"It is my view that this school should remain open. I believe that schools like this, not only offer a real choice for parents who want a religious education for their children, but its academic standards justify continuing the school to save the community in which it lies at the heart.

"I urge you to seriously re-consider any proposal to close this school and in the strongest terms I urge you to allow St Aidan's School to remain open. Please listen to the voices of parents, governors and the local community who are making a case, which is strong and right".