RESIDENTS have given the thumbs up to a ring of steel which is being thrown around an Accrington high school.

An eight-foot high steel fence could be in place at Moorhead High School's campus on Queens Road West by the start of the new term.

Plans for the second stage of the work have been handed in to Hyndburn Council by county education bosses, who are in charge of the scheme.

The latest proposal is to put in new fencing next to a footpath between the school and St Christopher's High next door.

Homeowners in the area failed in a bid to have the original plans to build a higher fence thrown out.

They complained that the fence was an "eyesore" and would not improve security because there were gaps in it. But now they are satisfied that security will be improved by putting the fence around the premises.

Local resident Barrie Trickett, of Talbot Road, said: "There were still so many ways to get in, we didn't see the point of something which would spoil our view."

"But with the next part of the school fenced off, providing the gates are kept locked, there are fewer ways for people to get in and it will be more secure.

"The fence bordering Queens Road West still needs to be improved, but anything that improves security is good for the kids and good for the area.

"We're pleased the school is sticking to its promises and that they've come up with the money to do this."

No one at the school, which is closed for the summer holidays, was available for comment.

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