A CRUNCH meeting to discuss the controversial review of Wyre Forest schools was branded a "farce" after Worcestershire's director of education failed to attend.

Julien Kramer had told members of the county council's education scrutiny panel in advance that he would not be present owing to a long-standing engagement.

However, councillors claimed it was too important an issue to be "debated in his absence" and have responded by writing to the council's chief executive, Rob Sykes.

"We needed him (Mr Kramer) there because there were questions he needed to answer," said panel member Coun Fran Oborski.

"I am appalled. It was a total and utter farce. They should not have allowed the meeting."

Tuesday's meeting was to determine whether the council's decision to close and reorganise Wyre Forest schools - from three to two-tier education - should be scrutinised by the panel.

"That was unforgivable. It shows complete and utter contempt for the scrutiny process," said Mike Shellie, another panel member.

A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council said Mr Kramer was keen to be involved in the on-going debate.

"Although his prior engagement was explained before the meeting, Julien is also writing to members to express his desire to be involved in the reconvened panel," he said.