AN MP has welcomed a council decision to bring back transport funding for Edgworth and Belmont children attending Turton High School.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has withdrawn the changes made in 2011, meaning Years 7 and 8 pupils who live more than three miles from the school will be entitled to a free bus pass once more.

In line with the decision, the parents of pupils affected by the 2011 changes will also be reimbursed.

Darwen MP Jake Berry, whose constituency covers the Turton area, said: “A number of local parents raised this issue directly with me, so I am really pleased that the council has listened to parents in Belmont and Edgworth.

“The changes just weren’t fair for families in Belmont and Edgworth and I am just glad that the council has seen sense and changed its mind.

“This is fantastic for families.”

Coun Dave Harling, Blackburn with Darwen Council executive member for schools, said: “The council is in the process of taking specialist legal advice on this and as a result we have taken a decision to reimburse children and their families who have been affected since 2011.”