THE squeeze on school places in Wellington is forcing some parents and children to travel to Taunton to get to school.

At least six children currently face the tiring journey on public transport every school day.

The problem is caused by most local schools being at or near capacity in some year groups. This means parents can be offered a place for one child at a local school but the school cannot accommodate their sibling.

County councillor for Wellington Andrew Govier says parents have contacted him and he is looking into the matter on their behalf. He said: “This is a really unfortunate situation in which these families find themselves.

“They face a lengthy and expensive journey to school each day, leaving the children and the parents tired at the end of the week. There is a real need for extra capacity to be provided in the local area to ensure this problem is alleviated.

“The bus fares alone cost families hundreds of pounds a month and the distance makes it difficult for the children to socialise with their school friends.”

For the full story, see this week’s Wellington Weekly News.