School cancels playtime after three neighbours complain about the noise

Barlby Community Primary School has also put up a soundproof fence because it fears a noise abatement order.

The school said the measures were "regrettable" but necessary to prevent the chance of a notice being served.

Some parents are unhappy about the move, which was also criticised by the organisation Play England.

The measures were put in place after some neighbours contacted environmental health officials.

The school's afternoon outside break has now been cancelled, and other breaks have been staggered so fewer children are in the playground at the same time.

Parents were also told in a letter that hard ball games were being cancelled.

One parent, named as Sharon, said: "You have got to let your children play when they are studying hard.

"I think the school are doing everything they can to resolve the problem, but at the end of the day my son and his friends enjoy playing outside."

Adrian Voce, Director of Play England, said: "We're concerned that children are losing the freedom to simply be children.

"Not only is school break time the main chance children get to play with their friends, research shows that making time for children to play during the school day improves concentration and behaviour.

"Play also contributes to children's informal learning and development.

Break times for teachers are protected by legislation, but there is no requirement for children to have time to play at school."

Suzanne Douglas, who is one of the school's governors, said the school had no option but to implement the measures and it was the children who were being penalised.

She said: "This is not a health and safety issue, we have been forced into doing this because of the complaints made.

"We regret doing it but it is an ongoing problem which began two years ago. It is just three complainants.