SUPPORT for Parr Community High has been growing as parents and churches add their weight in the battle to save the threatened school.

Parents of pupils at the school have followed in their children's footsteps in forming an action committee. Kath Holland, whose daughter Rebecca is in Year 10 at the school, says that parents decided to set up the committee after seeing the commitment and determination of the pupils' action group. The parents committee now plans to set up a petition in defence of the school and will meet to discuss the closure.

But Kath, who is also a governor at the school, knows that they have a big task ahead and says that they do not know where to begin in their bid: "We really need a lot of support and ideas from anyone who wants to help. We would be glad to hear from anyone who think they can."

Anyone who would like to help can phone Kath on 01744 751072.

And the clergy of Parr have spoken out with a united voice to help save the high school.

Leaders of the various faith communities in Parr have joined forces and made a statement to the St Helens Star expressing their concerns for the future.

They say: "As clergy living and working in Parr, we would like to express our great concern at the possibility of the closure of Parr High School in July 2002. We understand that the Council is under pressure over the number of places in St Helens secondary schools and appreciate the decision to consult widely on the future of the school. However we are concerned on three grounds:

1. The Process; We understand that following consultations the final decision will not be taken until December. This will lead to a long period of major uncertainty for staff, pupils and parents with decisions to be made about school entry, choice of options and careers.

2. The Reason; Though numbers are the lowest in the borough we do not believe that this on its own should be a reason for any school closure. Areas such as Parr need schools of good standards at both secondary and primary level. The staff at Parr High ensure children receive good opportunities and great encouragement as they prepare for the future.

3. The Consequences ; If the decision was taken to close Parr High we believe it would have a serious effect on the people of Parr. The school is part of the fabric of the community and its closure would be the detriment of morale and educational opportunities.

"We would like to pay tribute to the staff members of the school. Their enthusiasm, hard work and dedication have given great encouragement and many opportunities to local children over the years. We hope that talk of possible closure does not make them feel undervalued.

"We understand the difficulties facing the Council, but we hope that proper consideration will be given to seeking alternative ways forward which will allow Parr Community High School to continue and develop its service to the area."

More than ten church leaders from the Community of Parr signed the letter.