PARENTS accused school governors of endangering their children's lives - over plans to improve security.

Governors at Gosford Hill School, Kidlington, faced angry parents last night over a scheme to fence off part of the site, closing its back entrance in Bicester Road.

Opponents say it will force pupils to cross a busy garage forecourt to use the main Oxford Road entrance.

The public meeting, at Exeter Hall, was attended by about 100 parents - most of whom opposed the scheme.

The meeting was set up by Malcolm Baker, of Bicester Road, who has a 15-year-old son at the school.

He said: "The prime reason we're here is the safety of children at all times, not just in the school.

"It is safety in the school and out of the school for the parents of children there today, and tomorrow, and in 50 years time."

He and other parents would like to see the Bicester Road gate locked and only unlocked for pupil access in the mornings and afternoons, supervised by a teacher, and with a video surveillance camera.

But headteacher Dennis Rowley told parents the school only had £5,000 from the Government to spend on improved security. After consultation with the police and other emergency services, the school had decided sealing the Bicester Road gate was the best option.

Dr David Thurling, the chairman of governors, said once the fence was up the situation would be monitored by teachers and parents. Other options could then be considered.

Kidlington county councillor Dave Green said he would ask road safety officers to look at possibe traffic calming and safety measures in the area, particularly around the garage.

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