A VILLAGE which has "seen better days" will sink further into decline with the loss of its 110-year-old school.

Making an 11th-hour appeal to save Dorset Road Infants, chairman of Mottingham Residents' Association John Perkins warned the social impact of closing it would be "disastrous".

Despite his pleas, Bromley Council's ruling executive voted six to three to recommend closure.

Only Councillor Charles Rideout voted against his party to save the small school, which is in his ward.

Mr Perkins said: "This rather smacks of a decision which was taken some time ago."

Bromley Council wants to close the school because it is too costly and there are other schools in the area which children could attend.

Announcing the site will be used as a "community facility", Councillor Brian Humphrys, executive member for education, said: "I want to thank everyone who has contributed to education at Dorset Road in the past."

A health or education centre, to "enhance facilities for the people of Mottingham", could be set up on the site.

The decision will now be "called-in" for review, which means a children and young person's policy committee will meet to make a decision. Failing this, the final decision will be made by the school organisation committee, made up of council, church and school representatives, on July 24.