PARENTS fighting plans for a shake-up of village schools meet council education bosses tomorrow night.

Durham County Council has called the public meeting over proposals to close Dene Valley and Eldon Lane primaries, near Bishop Auckland, and build one school open for community use on a different site.

There are empty desks at both schools and both buildings need repairs which could cost hundreds of thousands of pounds over the next few years.

Wear Valley and Durham County councillors are backing the merger, despite the parents' concerns.

District councillor Chris Foote Wood, a former chairman of governors at both schools, said yesterday: "Having recently led a delegation of parents to County Hall about the future of our two schools, I am well aware of the concerns of parents who want to keep both schools as they are. Closing the two existing schools and building a new school will undoubtedly cause upset and disruption for staff, pupils and parents.

"My personal view is that we should look for the best solution, not only for our children presently at school, but also for future generations.

"In my view, the current school buildings are outmoded and will be an increasing burden in the future.

"A merged school in brand new, purpose-built buildings with additional community facilities would be a great asset to the Dene Valley and would provide up to date, modern facilities for all our children for many years to come."

County councillor Phil Graham said: "I am quite comfortable with the proposals, which make good economic sense."

But Eldon Lane parent Julie Barlow said she would fight the plan to the bitter end.

She said: "I am against it because they would be spoiling two good schools.

"The situation at the moment is awful. The uncertainty is unsettling the children."

Tomorrow's meeting starts at 7pm in King James I Community College, Bishop Auckland.

The county has set a deadline of March 5 for responses to consultation.