DOZENS of headteachers from schools across Taunton gathered outside County Hall to protest as they struggle to balance their budgets.

The staff members, including teachers, heads, and governors, stood their ground outside Somerset County Council's HQ to voice their concerns about school funding.

Headteacher of Trull Primary School, Karen Wedlake, spearheaded the call-to-action to bring fellow educators together to campaign for change.

She said: "I want to say a huge thank you to all of you for coming out.

"It's a sad state of affairs that we have to be here due to all the cuts.

"I do appreciate you giving up your time, it shows how important this all is to every single person.

"It's our children, your children, who are going to suffer as a result of the cuts.

"All their needs, we have to make shortfalls and balance the budgets as best we can."

Ms Wedlake said schools in the region are struggling to balance their budgets, and now 'deficits are in place'.

The teachers were joined by local Liberal Democrat councillors, who have launched a petition to reverse the cuts.

SCC cabinet member for children and families, Frances Nicholson, and Faye Purbrick, cabinet member for education and council transformation, also turned out to show their support for the headteachers.

A full report with videos and photos will be available tomorrow.