PARENTS who take their children away on holiday during term time face tough action from Thurrock Council.

Mike Revell, the councillor responsible for education, is touring the borough's schools and spreading the message.

He said: "There is a problem with some parents who take their children away on holiday during term time.

"It disrupts the teaching of children and has an impact on their continued learning.

"Parents must understand they have a legal responsibility to see their children go to school. Thurrock Council will continue to take parents to court when they flout this basic law."

Thurrock Council is also rewarding children with 100 per cent attendance records.

Mr Revell said: "The vast majority of parents understand the importance of full attendance of school.

"The pupils we are rewarding this week deserve our congratulations for this achievement and I hope they will keep up their 100 per cent records."