A LETTER detailing recent changes in the law to help tackle poor attendance in school has been issued to parents in Darlington.

New powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act mean that the borough council can fine parents or carers up to £100 if their children are caught truanting.

Fixed penalty notices could be issued for pupils being absent without an acceptable reason, taking too many holidays in term time, or being caught by education officials and police on truancy sweeps.

The letter issued by the council warns parents the new measures are now in force.

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for children's services, said: "It is essential that parents and carers take heed of this letter. As well as incurring a financial penalty and the longer term possibility of prosecution for the parents, a consistently high level of truancy will most likely mean that the pupil pays the highest price of all in terms of educational low achievement and the increased likelihood of becoming involved in other forms of anti-social behaviour.

"Families who are looking to book their main holiday should also be aware that taking holidays in term time can also be viewed as unauthorised absence. They need to consult the school before making a holiday booking."