Derbyshire County Council has announced plans to shut Deincourt Community School, at North Wingfield, and send pupils to a new £17m super-school at Tibshelf.

A meeting of Derbyshire County Council's cabinet will take place on Tuesday, where it has been recommended the authority proceeds with the school's closure – despite a 916-signature petition and 32 individual letters opposing the plans.

Parents joined forces on Saturday to hold a peaceful demonstration, while celebrating what could be their first – and last – spring carnival.

Clare Gaunt, carnival organiser, said: "It was a brilliant day and a really good atmosphere. The police were surprised how peacefully it went.

"It is the best ever carnival or fair we've had at the school and I'm sure that is because of the community support, with everyone trying to keep the school open."

Protesters are concerned pupils could be forced to travel up to six miles to go to school and become nothing more than a number if the scheme gets the go-ahead.

Clare said: "If it doesn't stay open it will be a shame because we are the heart of the community in this village."

Over 500 people attended the carnival, which raised £2,158 towards a pamper week for girls from the school with low self-esteem.

A street collection also raised £50 which will be handed over to Chesterfield Royal Hospital's Special Care Baby Unit.

• Derbyshire County Council wants to close Deincourt, increase the planned admission numbers of Tibshelf Community School when it relocates to a new site and extend the catchment areas of both Tupton Hall School and Tibshelf Community School.



READ MORE
Main news index
Letters
Local sport
Music and gig scene