PARENTS across Worcestershire are being urged to put their children's names down for a place at their preferred school.

Thousands of children are due to start school in September, but the county council does not know how many want places at its schools.

Anyone with youngsters starting school between September 2002 and July 2003, is being reminded that the closing date for handling admissions applications is Friday, February 8.

"If you wish for your child to be considered for a school maintained by the council and have not yet applied, we would urge you to do so as soon as possible," said Mike Hughes, transfers and admissions officer.

Information booklets, leaflets and application forms are available from schools or from the Admissions & Transfer Office.

Posters and flyers about applications are at schools, early years providers, social services, health authorities, libraries and council shops.

These are also available in Urdu and Bengali.

Parents hand the completed form application directly to the school they want as first preference.

Forms or further information can be obtained from Pupil Admissions and Transfers Section, Education Services Directorate, PO Box 73, Worcester WR5 2YA, or telephone 01905 763763.