AN education official has asked Blackburn with Darwen parents to avoid booking holidays in term.

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s director of schools and education Lisa Bibby has written to parents within the local authority to ask for their cooperation.

Ms Bibby spoke out after concerns were raised nationally that children are being taken out of school to go on family holidays in term-time.

In her letter distributed by schools she said: “Children’s absence from school disrupts learning and undermines educational attainment and achievement.

“I would ask you to bear in mind that there is no automatic right to any leave of absence for holidays in term-time.

“The government’s advice to parents is that holidays should be taken when the school is closed.

“Changes in government regulations mean headteachers will no longer be able to grant any leave of absence during term-time unless there are specific exceptional circumstances.”