CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after plans to close their school were scrapped.

The were responding to the school adjudicator Dr Bryan Slater’s decision to reject proposals to shut Gillas Lane Primary School in Houghton-le-Spring on Wearside.

Parents, pupils, staff and members of the community launched a save the school from closure when Sunderland City Council first announced plans to close it and move children to nearby Bernard Gilpin Primary.

Now their dedication has paid off after school adjudicator, Dr Bryan Slater, yesterday announced his decision.

Anna Watson, parent governor at the school, said: "It is absolutely amazing news, just wonderful.

"When we announced it to the children in the hall they all gave a big cheer. It was like Christmas all over again for them.

"It was very, very emotional. Lots of people, including the children, were crying because we were so overjoyed.

"We have tried to remain positive throughout and are just thrilled the adjudicator has seen it from our point of view and come up with a decision which is the right one."

Headteacher Terry Hambleton, said: "I am absolutely elated after all the hard work. It is all credit to the whole community who have come together to support the school."

The council’s education chiefs had proposed closing Gillas Lane to tackle the number of surplus places throughout the city schools.

Helen Paterson, executive director of children's services at the council, said: "We are currently considering the implications of the very detailed statement from the schools adjudicator.

"This will include looking at how we can work with and support the school going forward."