I HAVE always supported special needs schools and I will continue to campaign to save our three special schools in Worcester.

I am delighted to say that the next Conservative government will put a stop to special needs school closures.

Together with parents, children and campaigners, I marched to County Hall earlier this year to express my concern about the proposals to reorganise the special schools in our city.

Attending a consultation meeting and speaking to many parents and teachers made it quite clear to me that the majority of those involved in special needs education want to save our schools in Worcester.

I have seen first hand how children at Thornton House are cared for and educated to a level that many mainstream schools are just unable to cope with - through no fault of their own.

Mainstream education may be suitable for some children with learning difficulties, but this decision should lie with parents.

It is outrageous that this Labour government is forcing inclusion upon us, denying parents choice and taking away special needs provision.

As a Conservative in Worcester, I will continue to fight to save Thornton House, Manor Park and Rose Hill.

MARGARET HARPER,

Worcester Conservative Parliamentary Candidate.