More than 96 per cent of pupils have been offered their first choice secondary school for this September, figures show

This figure was up from 94 per cent last year.

Out of 5,238 applicants resident in Cumbria, who applied by the closing date, 5047 or 96.4 per cent were offered a place at their first preference school.

Parents and carers who have not been offered places for their children at their first preference school are being provided with information about how to lodge an appeal.

Cllr Sue Sanderson, Cumbria County Council’s Cabinet Member for schools and learning, said: "It’s fantastic news that the vast majority of pupils have secured a place at their first choice secondary school.

"Young people in Cumbria are more likely to get a place at the secondary they want than most other places in the country.

"That will be a great comfort to the majority of parents and carers in the county and I wish pupils and their families all the very best for their new school."