A mum is taking her challenge to keep her twins in the same class at primary school to the Government.

Anna MacDonald, 36, could set a precedent by appealing to the Secretary of State for education, Nicky Morgan, after she was told her sons Duncan and Bobby, four, will be separated.

She said John Ray Infant School in Notley Road, Braintree, decided not to make an exception to its policy just before the summer holidays began.

A school spokesman said: "By being placed in separate classrooms we believe twins and multiple birth children can develop their own social networks and personal interests whilst maintaining their mutual support and bond.

“We assess each case on its own merits and always put a programme of support and development around children to ensure they are achieving and have a good level of wellbeing.

* See this week's Braintree Times for the full story.