Parents across the county are being reminded that online applications for primary school places will close next week.

Those with children due begin school this September should lodge their applications no later than Tuesday January 15 to ensure their little ones get a place at their chosen school.

Lancashire County Council and Blackburn with Darwen council are urging parents to head to the respective websites in order to fill out the online application.

Council bosses are also reminding parents that they will need to submit an application form for all children starting school, even if the child already has an older brother or sister at their preferred school.

Last year, 95% of parents used the county council's website to apply for their children's places online.

For more information go to www.lancashire.gov.uk/schools or call 0300 123 6707.

Parents of children who live in another local authority area, but whose children will be attending a Lancashire based school, should apply via the local authority where they live.