FRIENDS of under threat Horton-in-Ribblesdale Primary School have vowed to fight on - despite next month's publication of formal closure proposals.

Supporters of the village school, which has just 15 children on its roll and no headteacher, have refused to accept North Yorkshire County Council's plans to close the school in April next year.

Following a decision by the council Executive, supported by the Diocese of Leeds, closure proposals will be published on January 5, after which 'representations' can be made until February 2.

A final decision will be made on February 21 and the school could close just two weeks later.

Meanwhile, governors were this week interviewing for a new headteacher and are developing a relationship with a 'fantastic school' in West Yorkshire.

A spokesman for the Friends of Horton in Ribblesdale School said last week's decision by the council was 'disappointing, but not unexpected'.

Further appeals would be made and there was still hope.

"Understanding our full situation, a fantastic school in West Yorkshire has expressed keen interest in helping Horton School in whatever way they possibly can - federation or academisation or friendship or partnership, support or just an ear. We do have hope and a future, and it is wonderful that so many others see this even when our council does not."

At last week's council meeting, Executive members listened to representations made by governors, parents and friends of the school, including their action plan and their intentions to re-advertise for a headteacher.

The Executive also discussed the responses to the consultation on closure that had been undertaken by the school’s governing body.

Cllr Arthur Barker said the action plan presented by supporters contained a number of potentially valuable enrichment opportunities, but depended on the viability of the school.

“There is no likelihood, given the efforts previously made by governors and the school, that such activities, however enriching for local children or the wider community, would generate significant numbers of additional children, " he said.

“The plan also appears to rely on grant funding from a wide array of different bodies over which there is no certainty of success. It is not clear how this could be sustainable over time."

Cllr Barker said teaching staff, the diocese and council officers had all voiced concerns about the impact on the children of low numbers in terms of their development, welfare and behaviour.

"They believe that pupils currently have limited opportunities to interact socially and to learn among a wider group of peers," he said.

“We take this decision with a heavy heart as we do everything possible to support our small schools. But our priority must be the children’s education and that it remains fit for purpose to give them the best start for their future lives.”