THE Herefordshire Association of Governors has called for the proposals for mass school to be withdrawn immediately.

Steve Grist, chair, said: "We believe that they have been prepared and presented in an inept, unprofessional and callous manner.

"The changes have seemingly not even been costed. No thought appears to have been given to the social, environmental, human, road safety or educational effects of the change.

"A generation of Herefordshire children is in danger of having its education wrecked by years of disruption and in many villages the entire fabric of rural life will be terribly damaged. Parents , children and staff are already shocked and distressed."

We recognise that Herefordshire Council has difficulties in framing a schools policy, in line with Government requirements, and the funding available. We would be happy to work with them towards solving these problems.

But these problems cannot be solved by creating much greater ones. And these draconian proposals do not begin to offer the basis of an agreement. We cannot accept small modifications and regard them as a victory.

We urge the elected councillors to have the good sense to recognise that their officials have failed, and to insist on a fresh start that will take account of the county's wishes and needs.

Failing that, we intend to convene a public meeting in Hereford, if possible this month, for all interested parties. We would invite the Leader of the Council, his colleagues and officials to come and explain their thinking - something they have so far utterly failed to do.