DEVIZES School's headteacher has reacted to pupils' day-long protest at plans to sell off acres of playing fields.

Phil Bevan said he was 'proud of the students' for standing up for what they believe in but wishes it hadn't gone on for so long.

He said: "I was actually quite proud that the pupils are so passionate about their school.

"The only real problem is that it took all day. They missed out on a lot of learning.

"We're at the early stages of our consultation process, there will be a student consultation meeting tomorrow where they can share their views.

"At this point it is just a proposal, it's very possible the plans are actually moved to the other side of the field.

"The consultation process will take a long time and their voice is very important. A continuous strike throughout the week won't help the process though."

Hundreds of children refused to go to lessons earlier today and gathered on the playing fields.

The protest started at the beginning of the school day and carried on through the afternoon.

Year 11 pupil Gracie Greenwood, 15, said: "The fields are used by everyone really often, for football, athletics and other things.

"The plans would see back gardens bordering our netball court which would make a lot of people feel vulnerable. We all feel very uncomfortable about the situation.

"I hope the school will listen to our protest. We were there for so long."

Year 10 Charlie added: "About three quarters of the school were out on the field.

"We all care about the school so much. We use the fields a lot, we play football and socialise there.

"They were trying to tempt us in with films and Kahoot (quizzes)."

The school is hosting a public meeting tonight at 6.30pm to get more feedback about the plans.