A DECISION to merge Worcester's only remaining infant and junior schools has been upheld by the Office of the Schools Adjudicator.

Worcestershire County Council took the decision to amalgamate Northwick Manor infant and junior schools last year.

Now, following a meeting with parents earlier this month, adjudicator Canon Richard Lindley has approved the proposal.

Councillor Liz Eyre, the county council's cabinet member for children and young people, said: "That we now have a clear decision is great news and we can now look forward to creating a school that's a credit to the community and serves pupils, parents, governors and staff well.

"We also hope that the two schools will join us in moving forward as we seize this fantastic opportunity."

Parents and governors of the infant school had been largely opposed to the merger as they felt a school of more than 600 pupils was too large.

City councillor Sue Askin, who is an infant school governor, said she was disappointed at the news.

"I attended the adjudicator's meeting and I felt that the adjudicator gave us a fair hearing," she said. "But I am disappointed with the decision from the point of view of the governors.

"However, we now have to look to the positive future of the school as, at the end of the day, it is our children's future that is the most important thing."

Andy Roberts, chairman of governors at the junior school, who is also a city councillor, said he was pleased with the decision.

"On balance we thought it was for the best," he said.

"I have to say that I have been very impressed with the way everyone has conducted themselves.

"Parents, governors and staff from both schools have argued their case in a very sensible and polite manner and I'm sure that we will all now work together to make this a very good school."

Worcestershire County Council has set aside £1 million towards the amalgamation, which will take place from September.

The council believes a single site will bring more opportunities for staff and students. A consultation on the merger last year received 103 responses - 71 were in opposition and 23 were in favour, while three did not state a preference.