Yarm School's proposed relocation caused disagreement between town councillors this week, who debated how best to proceed in talks with the school.

Head teacher David Dunn had written to Yarm Town Council chairman Coun Liz Marsden, who was unable to attend Tuesday's meeting.

The council had no criticism whatsoever of Mr Dunn's conduct or that of Yarm School.

But Coun Gwen Porter said: "I understand he was very disappointed that Yarm Town Council was not prepared to meet him informally. He understood some councillors would like to meet him with Kirklevington Parish Council. He said the Kirklevington meeting was very good, informal and a great help. He still hopes he will get some other meeting with us."

Vice-chairman Coun Philip Addison asked new clerk, Peter Woods, if he had written to Mr Dunn, but he had not, yet.

Mr Woods said he needed clarification about the letter and the council's wishes. Coun Porter said three councillors previously expressed an interest but would not represent the whole town council.

However, Coun Peter Monck said: "Why are we not going as a council? It's a major issue."

Coun Eric Turton said: "I can appreciate Coun Monck's concern about this. However, if we are to consider a formal meeting, we still need more information. I would expect a meeting to take place with an agreed agenda."

Coun Porter said: "Mr Dunn's reason to meet us is for an informal talk about the possibilities associated with the move."

"Yarm School does a lot for the good of Yarm and brings a lot of trade here. We should have been good enough to agree to a meeting before the plans arrived."

The clerk was asked to invited Mr Dunn to a private, informal meeting, hopefully on Monday. It would be a forum for councillors who wished to attend.

Mr Woods added: "The only reason I have not written yet is because it is such a massive issue. I wanted to be absolutely clear."