PARENTS of children who failed to get a place at their chosen school are invited to an "emergency surgery" with MP David Gauke.

The MP for South West Hertfordshire will answer parents' questions at Scotsbridge House in Scotts Hill, Rickmansworth, on Friday, March 30 from 4pm to 6pm.

He will be joined by Hertfordshire county councillor Barbara Lamb, who represents Rickmansworth and sits on the county's education panel.

More than five per cent were refused a place at one of their chosen schools this year but the council insists more families than ever are being allocated one of their top three choices.

Mr Gauke said he had seen "some improvement" in the number of children getting one of their preferred schools but stressed that there were still families being "left disappointed".

"I cannot wave a magic wand but I hope that Councillor Barbara Lamb and I will be able to provide some practical advice and be able to take up cases with the LEA," he added.

To book an appointment, call 01923 771781.