PEOPLE in County Durham are being invited to play an important role in children's admissions to school.

Last year, more than 420 parents appealed against the local education authority decision to refuse to admit their child to a the school of their choice.

An independent panel consisting of lay members and some with education experience dealt with the appeals.

Durham County Council is looking to recruit more panel members to ensure parents get a fair and independent hearing, and to deal with appeals concerning the exclusion and reinstatement of pupils at a particular school.

The posts are unpaid, but travel and subsistence allowances are paid.

For further information, write to: Elizabeth Wilson, Corporate and Legal Services Department, County Hall Durham, DH1 5UL.