HAMPSHIRE MPs have spoken of their shock and concern after the Daily Echo proved how easy it was for strangers to get into the county's schools.

We revealed a disturbing lack of security in schools across Hampshire and Southampton.

Our team of reporters visited 40 schools to see just how far they could roam without being questioned - with staggering results.

It was found that:

Entry could be gained to playgrounds at 75 per cent of schools.

Reporters were rarely challenged by staff even when they mingled with children.

In almost one third of schools, reporters were able to get into school buildings, including sports halls, classrooms and toilets.

MPs, themselves embroiled in security issues at the House of Commons, said schools should challenge uninvited individuals but warned against turning them into "fortresses."

Romsey Liberal Democrat MP Sandra Gidley said: "It would be a shame if playgrounds were locked and schools became fortesses but clearly, if you see uninvited individuals walking around they should be challenged.

"We have to change the culture where people feel more comfortable about challenging something that is not right.

"If you are in charge of pupil safety you have a duty to wonder who that is rather than get on with what you are doing although most of the time it is perfectly innocent."

Conservative Fareham MP Mark Hoban said: "I can understand people getting into playgrounds as they are open and it is easy to access them.

"It concerns me however that people can get into the school itself. Most schools have controlled entrances, particularly primary schools for the safety of their pupils. Clearly, where it is a big school it is easier to gain access. I think that school staff need to be more vigilant in checking people round schools, both for the protection of pupils and the protection of property."

Winchester MP Mark Oaten, a Liberal Democrat, said: "While we don't want to turn our schools into fortresses, I am sure parents will be concerned about school security.

"A balance has to be struck between allowing parents and grandparents easy access and making sure that visitors report and sign in properly."