GOVERNORS of failing Townsend Primary School have called on councillors to use their hearts as well as their heads when deciding the future of the school.

After a report from council officers recommended the school be closed, chairman of governors Andrew Rickett said governors are hoping that councillors will be persuaded to keep the school open.

Mr Rickett said: "I know that the councillors have to make a decision with their heads but surely there is a place for their hearts in decision making."

He said he was worried about vulnerable children, many of whom have special needs, having to move schools in the middle of their primary education.

He added that the governors thought head teacher Steve Jessop was "superb" and that the school was improving.

The governors hope the option of federation with another school in Bournemouth will be explored further.

Mr Rickett said: "We have sent letters to parents urging them to show their support for the school by attending the meeting on November 6."

He will speak at the meeting on behalf of the governors.

Parent governor Katie Spicer, from Townsend, who has a daughter in Year 5, said: "It is no longer a failing' school, it is a rapidly improving school and how the council could justify closing a rapidly improving school, if they did, dumbfounds me.

"It would be a big mistake long-term, financially, socially, morally and politically."

Bournemouth East MP Tobias Ellwood said that if the school did close it was important that the building should continue to be used for community activities.

Mr Ellwood said: "My biggest worry is that flats will be built on the site of the school.

"The growth of flats is like a cancer in Bournemouth. If the school building is lost, then social groups that keep the community together will also be lost.

"If the school is closed, the building should be kept with a view to the school reopening in the future."

Head teacher Steve Jessop said: "It is important to remember that this is a recommendation, not a final decision. Our focus must remain on working hard to provide the best education, care guidance and support for the children and families here at Townsend."