Parents at a Telford school today raised concerns at security arrangements after two six-year-old pupils went missing.

The youngsters, who have not been named, disappeared from Muxton Primary School at lunchtime yesterday when they left the school grounds as part of a game they were playing with each other. They were spotted later in the afternoon by a school governor and returned safely.

One father, who has a five-year-old child at the school, raised concern at the ease people could walk in and out of the school in Marshbrook Way.

He said: “I’m concerned that once the kids are in the school the gates are left wide open all day. There are two ways in and most schools would have them locked but that’s not the case.

“Entry and exits need to be locked after the kids are inside.”

Michelle Preston, of Muxton, described what happened as “unnerving”.

“I was shocked when I heard what had happened,” she said. “I thought it was all locked up at playtime.”

Trevor Pope, of Muxton, whose nine-year-old grandson attends the school, said: “It’s worrying children should be able to go out of the school gates. It was surprising but hopefully it was just a one off.”

Christen Hailey said: “It’s a concern. I’m not panicking but it does need looking at. I think maybe the staff need to be a little bit more vigilant.”

Mother-of-three Emma Allen said: “Things like this are so rare. I don’t think it’s anything to worry about. The school is excellent.”

Suzanna Verdi, also of Muxton, said: “I think it was a one-off, but obviously the issue needs addressing.”

Deborah Williams, headteacher, said they were carrying out a thorough review of school security.

“This has been a very unfortunate and unusual incident but I would like to thank parents for their understanding and many supportive comments.

“Prior to this incident, we had already submitted plans to erect an internal fence between the school field and car park.”

By Lizzie Yates