MORE than 91% of children in Somerset have secured their parents’ first choice primary school for the next academic year - an increase on previous years.

Figures revealed by Somerset County Council show for September 2014, 91.45% of 5,755 children received their parents’ first choice primary school and 97.12% of children were given one of their top three choices.

This is an improvement on last year, where 90.68% of children received their first choice, and 96.68% were given one of their top three choices.

Cllr Frances Nicholson, Somerset County Council Cabinet member for Children and Families, said: “It is great news that in almost all cases we have been able to meet parents and carers’ preferences.

“This year is an improvement on last year and that was an improvement on the year before, even though the task gets ever more challenging.

“For those children who haven't got one of their top three choices, we will work with the families to make sure we meet that child’s educational needs.”