PARENTS will be banned from school sporting events if they continue to abuse staff and officials, education bosses have warned.

In its latest newsletter, the Castle Point and Rochford School Sport Partnership said it was forced to issue the warning and a string of behaviour guidelines following a spate of recent incidents.

Desi Mckeown, headteacher of the Deanes, in Daws Heath Road, Thundersley, which runs the partnership, told the Echo members of staff were verbally abused during a cross country event at another school.

In the newsletter, Steve Bish, manager of the partnership, which organises sporting events for around 50 south Essex schools, said: "We do appreciate this behaviour is that of a very small minority, but we wanted to put something in place to ensure the events are high quality, safe and enjoyable for all involved, especially the children.

“As a result of issues at recent events, if these guidelines are not adhered to we will unfortunately have to enforce a policy of no parents/spectators attending our events.”

Mr Mckeown said the partnership was forced to take action due to its duty of care to staff.

He said: "During a cross country event at another school, some parents were becoming abusive towards some members of staff.

“The abuse was verbal.

“The parents need to realise the children are participating in sporting events for the right reasons, and these games are no place for abuse.

“The partnership has a duty of care to those involved in events, and we must take care of the staff.” .

Jason Carey, headteacher of the James Hornby School, in Leinster Road, Laindon, welcomed the move.

He said he introduced a similar set of guidelines to parents attended rugby matches.

He said: “It’s only right and proper that parents act as role models for their children.

“Of course, watching your child play in a sporting event can be an emotional time for a parent.

“We have never had any problems with abusive parents during school matches, but if we did, we would have to take correct action.

“Any information given to parents which can help sporting events run smoothly is a good thing.”

Under the new guidelines, a zero tolerance policy will be enforced on those using inappropriate language and aggressive behaviour.

Parents have been told they must show respect to decision makers, and positively encourage children.