EXTRA places should be created at popular Christchurch primary schools to avoid disappointment, according to a local councillor.

Dozens of families were denied places at their first choice schools despite living in the designated catchment area.

Schools worst affected include Mudeford Infants, where 16 catchment children were turned down and offered places at Somerford Primary instead.

And 33 living in the correct area were turned down from Christchurch Infants School. Most will be accommodated at the new Twynham Primary.

Cllr Lesley Dedman told the Daily Echo: “We have known this is going to be a problem for years and it is very sad that we are still battling to get the schools to meet the number that is required. Only one more class would be needed and there is always room to expand. These children live in the catchment area and will now have to travel further.”

Clive Jervis’ daughter, Grace, was refused a place despite living in the catchment area.

He said: “The council needs to expand Mudeford Infants. More family homes are being built in the area and the situation is just going to get worse. Grace is a timid child and has made friends at Mudeford pre-school. Now she has been given a place at Somerford and won’t know anyone.”

Cllr Toni Coombs, Dorset County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people said:”While Mudeford Infants is oversubscribed, there are available places at Somerford in the neighbouring catchment. With the costs that would be needed to expand the existing schools in Mudeford, it makes best sense to use the spare capacity at Somerford.”