FAMILIES of 79 children in Southampton failed in getting them into a primary school of their choice, figures have revealed.

This year saw 2,925 applications submitted to Southampton City Council for places at infant, junior and primary schools.

According to figures released by the authority 87.7 per cent – 2,564 children – got their first choice school, 7.3 per cent – 215 children – got their second choice, whilst 2.3 per cent – 67 children – secured their third choice.

The released figures are slightly up on last year’s results.

As previously reported, Hampshire County Council revealed just over 97 per cent of children were offered a place at one of their top three schools.

However, more than ten per cent of local children did not receive their top option.

The figures are similar to last year despite a rising demand for places.