PARENTS at Kingsley St John CE Primary School say they will battle against a proposed merger which would see the rural school join forces with Norley CE School.

Cheshire County Council sent letters to parents of pupils at both schools explaining the move was being considered in response to falling birth rates, which have led to surplus places, and the challenges of meeting educational and financial demands in small schools.

But battle lines have already been drawn at both schools and a committee set up by Kingsley residents says banners opposing plans are already on display at the Hollow Lane site.

Committee member and parent Lynn Waring said: "We held a meeting last week in response to the news and lots of people showed their concern and support about the school's future.

"We will fight the decision all the way because closing Kingsley St John's would be absolutely devastating to everyone in the area. The school is an integral part of village life and is at the heart of the community."

Fellow committee member Sue Wallace, whose five-year-old son Ben attends the 72-pupil school, said the merger plan is causing distress.

Sue, 37, of Top Road, added: "I made the choice to send Ben to the school because of its known excellence and he is so happy there. The school has just received Investor in People status and now the hard work and efforts of everyone there could be wrecked.

"We want to keep the school as it is for everyone.

"It's important to maintain the status quo for the village, the parents and teachers but most of all for the children."

Joan Feenan, acting Children's Services director, said: "It is anticipated final decisions will be made in March 2006."

Representatives from Norley CE are also fighting the plans.