Parents 'livid' after Shropshire school's prom is postponed due to heatwave
The school said the decision “was not taken lightly”, but parents are frustrated over expenses and the possibility of kids missing out
A Shropshire secondary school has postponed its end-of-year prom due to the heatwave, much to the dismay of many parents and students.
Lacon Childe School in Cleobury Mortimer has said the decision “was not taken lightly” to postpone the event, which was due to take place on Thursday (June 25) at The Barn, Dinthill.
However, some parents are “livid” with the decision, with some saying they have spent money on suits, gowns and expensive cars, but cannot make the rearranged date of July 2.
One parent said: “All that money spent has been wasted. Some students were sharing transport. I’m hoping they change their minds as a lot can’t make the new date or afford to do it all again.
“The more people that complain to the school will hopefully make a difference.”
There has also been talk of parents trying to arrange their own event for children who cannot make the new date.
A spokesperson for the Four Stones Gateway Trust, which runs Lacon Childe School, said: “Temperatures are forecast to exceed 35°C, peaking late afternoon, early evening when the students would be arriving for the event, creating exceptionally challenging conditions.
“The venue informed us that the room booked was not air conditioned and they were concerned, as were we, as to how they could keep the venue cool or help us provide a safe environment for the students to enjoy themselves in the way they deserve.
“The decision was not taken lightly. We recognise the inconvenience that the postponement may cause for families; however, our overriding responsibility is to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of our students and staff.
“We are looking forward to seeing the students on the rescheduled date of Thursday, July 2.”
Announcing the prom a couple of months ago, a school spokesperson said: “We are incredibly proud of our Year 11 students and the hard work and dedication they continue to show.
“With their first exams fast approaching, we want to take a moment to celebrate their efforts and encourage them to keep going, all that hard work will pay off!
“Our fantastic Year 11s are invited to attend their prom at The Barn at Dinthill on Thursday, June 25. It promises to be a wonderful evening, celebrating five memorable years with us, and we cannot wait to welcome them all for this special occasion.”
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