An 11-year-old boy has missed six months' education because no schools in his area have room for him.

Home study - Lee at his dad's pub Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY VGL4620

Kevin Dobson, 52, landlord of the Cock Inn, Rochford, has applied to seven schools for son, Lee.

He said: "We moved from Rayleigh about a year ago so we don't fall under that catchment area any more. Lee went to Love Lane Primary School in Rayleigh and all of his friends are either at FitzWimarc or Sweyne Park. It's his choice to go to one of those."

"I am so worried - he has missed so much school. I can't believe school spaces are that tight in Essex. It is a desperate situation."

A spokesperson for Essex County Council said: "Mr Dobson did not apply in time to get his son into his first choice."

Published Monday January 26, 2004

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