HORTON-in-Ribblesdale Primary School is to close at the end of August following a decision of the Office of the Schools Adjudicator.

In his decision notice, published yesterday, adjudicator David Lennard Jones, said there had been many arguments made for retaining the school, which currently has just 12 children, but that he agreed with the concerns of North Yorkshire County Council and the Leeds Diocese of the school's ability to provide a proper education for its children.

"My conclusion is that the concerns about the school's ability to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum to a very small number of children; the limited peer interaction and the ability to deliver a sustainably balanced budget, outweigh the community benefits that the school brings to the village," he said.

The school's governing body appealed to the government office against North Yorkshire County Council's decision made in February to close the school because of falling numbers and no prospect of attracting more pupils.

Yesterday, the Friends of Horton-in-Ribblesdale School, posted a message on Facebook to say they were sad at the decision but recognised they had reached the end of the road.

They thanked all who had helped with support and advice and encouraged other schools facing possible closure to question decisions.

The statement reads: "Today we heard from the adjudicators office and I'm afraid it's not good news. We close at the end of term. 

"We are sad. The feeling of social injustice and community loss prevails.

"But we recognise that we have reached the end of the road. 

"We would like to thank you all for the support, encouragement and advice you have offered throughout this year. It's been a long and tiring process, having you all with us has meant a great deal.

"To any communities or schools who have been following our progress and are apprehensive of their own future we would say do not give up and do not give in. 

"Challenge given statements. Ask for evidence to back given claims. 
Your school and your community are worth the fight."

The school will close on August 31.