A SCHOOL which came under fire for separating children from a Father's Day lunch because they had no male role model, has reassured parents it has listened to their concerns and is reviewing the event.

Disgusted parents contacted The Northern Echo earlier this month following a special lunch at Cockfield Primary School, in Teesdale.

The parents said their children had come home upset and distressed when they had to eat their lunch in a separate room because they had no male guest.

Headteacher, Kathryn Heatherington, said: “We have listened to the concerns voiced and have no wish to stop any of our children bringing someone special to them to any event we have.

“We will continue to offer opportunities for this throughout the year, where they can be accommodated within the size of building we have.We are currently looking at whether and how we mark mothers’ day and fathers’ day next year and beyond and will be letting parents know in due course.”