A blind mother has been told by Cornwall County Council that her six-year-old daughter will no longer get free transport to school. Francesca Storer, who attends St Dominick Church of England Primary School, used to get free transport from her home in Callington. However, the service that Francesca had been using since she was three was withdrawn in October – something which 'incensed' local MP Colin Breed. An appeal was lodged with the Education Transport Panel but it upheld the decision from the Children Services Authority that free transport could not be agreed within Cornwall County Council's normal policy. 'I am appalled at this decision,' said Mr Breed. 'Quite frankly the refusal of the appeal is disgusting, heartless and lacking in any humanity whatsoever.' 'I believe the members of the appeal panel should be ashamed of themselves and immediately resign from their positions.' Francesca was offered an alternative place at Callington Primary School. However, her mother, Anne Marie Storer, said she would not want to go there. 'She has a lot of friends at St Dominick Primary School. It is perfect for her and she adores it there.' Francesca has managed to get to St Dominick with the help of disability charity Scope but Mrs Storer is unsure how long that will last. Cornwall County Council was unavailable for comment.
