A decline in pupils means less government funding

Councillor Peter Phillips had called for Friday's deadline to be put back as some teachers and parents thought the six-week period had been too short.

But any comments received by Shropshire County Council up until 28 November will be taken into account.

Funding pressures and falling pupil numbers mean a number of schools could be closed or merged after the review.

'Short-changed'

Lib Dem Mr Phillips said: "I was at a meeting at Lydbury North and many other schools were represented there.

"It was abundantly clear that a very large number of those present felt short-changed by the consultation process, specifically they felt it has been far too short."

Ann Hartley, cabinet member for children's services, said: "We have worked hard to publicise the consultation widely.

"The consultation will end formally on 9 November, but we will continue to record, and take into account, any views expressed up until the date the report to cabinet is written."