Police and social workers cracking down on truancy in Banbury found 53 children roaming the streets during school hours.

Two police officers and two educational social workers spent two days earlier this month patrolling the town on foot and in unmarked cars. They searched the town centre and estates between 10.30am and 3pm.

Of the 53 children challenged, 11 were of primary school age and with parents.

Pc Mike Ellis said: "The reasons for absence included a day off to go ice skating and a trip to a restaurant as a treat for going to the dentist. One girl said she had a throat infection - though it didn't stop her going shopping."

Thirty-eight children were from secondary schools. Of these, 14 were excluded from classes or on restricted timetables. Others claimed to be sick.

The remaining four were from private or special schools. Nine of the 53 were taken back to school and their parents were informed and visited.

Pc Ellis said: "We were not out to intimidate these youngsters. But we wanted to make it clear that truancy is not acceptable. It holds up their education and leaves them vulnerable to a variety of temptations while roaming the streets."

Under the Education Act, parents have a duty to ensure children attend school regularly and can be prosecuted if they fail to do so. The police, in agreement with the education authority, have the power to take truants to a reception centre or back to school.