BEEF should be coming back onto school dinner menus in the autumn.

The borough's head teachers are showing enthusiasm for a lifting of the ban come the new term.

More than 50 have already replied to a council letter asking them if they have any objections to beef being reinstated - and the consensus seems to be in favour.

Back in 1995, Bury was one of the first authorities in the country to ban all beef in schools.

Following Government action to combat "mad cow disease", many councils have reversed their policy and brought back beef.

If councillors decide to follow suit, they will write to all parents explaining the decision.

Bury caterers have been using other meats like lamb and chicken in their minced dishes.

Mr Ray Worrall, borough catering officer, said: "In the main, the heads are in agreement that beef goes back.

"If the committee approves bringing back beef, there will always be a hot dish alternative and a cold dish on the menu."

He said the council would use approved butchers to supply only flank or muscle meat from cattle no older than 36 months. Offal, beef sausages and pies would not be served.

Councillors will make an official decision at next month's competitive services committee.

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