ANDOVER'S MP, Sir George Young, gave his backing to a campaign to keep Shepherd Springs Schools open by adding his signature to the 600 already on a petition to save the schools.

The schools are under threat from a new housing development which could see a new school built at East Anton and either Shepherd Springs or Knights Enham Schools shut.

The MP visited Shepherd Springs' pre-school on Friday to share views and give parents his support.

He told the parents that he whole-heartedly opposed the threatened closure of the schools and believed there must be a more constructive alternative.

"He had no hesitation to sign our petition, which was surprising but really wonderful," said Amanda Whittam, parent and member of the Shepherd Springs schools Action Group.

Sir George Young will be recommending to Cllr David Kirk, Hampshire County Council's executive member for education, to meet with the parents of the schools.

For the full story see Friday's Andover Advertiser