The head of The King’s School has this week dispelled fears that West Hill independence would leave some primary-aged children outside of its catchment area.

A bid for the woodland village to breakaway from Ottery and form its own council has divided opinion in the parish, as both sides remain split over a preferred boundary and possible implications.

The proposal is now going through a second round of consultation and a series of drop-in events is being held to provide residents with more information.

It was at a public meeting that concerns were raised about whether West Hill Primary School children would still be in the catchment area for the Ottery-based secondary school – that is a preferred choice of many.

Headteacher of The King’s School Faith Jarrett said: “West Hill Primary School, and the area, is and will remain the catchment for The King’s School, irrespective of any changes to the parish councils.

“Only the governors of the school can make a change to the school’s catchment and they have absolutely no intention of making any changes.”