Young political lobbyists at St Mary's CofE Primary School, Twyford, snapped up the chance to put their case for a new hall to Mark Oaten when he visited to talk about his work as Winchester's MP.

Members of the school council presented a letter underlining the need to replace the Victorian hall, which they claim, while beautiful, is far too small.

The school says it has been "severely disadvantaged" by the lack of a space large enough to cater for even the most basic activities. Existing facilities are not up to national curriculum standards and may soon pose a health-and-safety risk.

"In 2002, staff and governors were informed by Hampshire County Council that a new hall was long overdue and a feasibility study had been completed," said chairman of governors, Stan Sowton.

"The study and associated drawings were discussed and considered by the full governing body and we believed that, once accepted, a building project would commence in our orchard."

In the three years since, nothing has been heard about the matter and enquiries to the council have not met with any success.

Mr Oaten said he sympathised with the situation: "It's a brilliant school with a lovely bunch of kids and an excellent assessment record but the one critical comment from Ofsted was the lack of a decent hall and sports facilities.

"This is really an issue for Hampshire County Council and I've spoken to them about it. The school has some great designs but, inevitably, it all comes down to time and money."

Staff and governors are now trying to persuade the council to reconsider earlier proposals and to accept that St Mary's deserves immediate attention to comply with present-day educational requirements.