THE Government agency responsible for free schools has approached Surrey Police about buying the former Cobham police station.

Last November the Advertiser reported that a consortium of teachers, parents and professionals was hoping to open a free school in the town, and the new school is expected to be ready for pupils in September.

But Cobham Free School Trust representatives refused to comment when asked if the trust is behind the bid for the disused police station.

A spokeswoman for Partnerships for Schools (PFS), the agency responsible for free schools, said: "PFS is working with the Cobham Free School Trust in order to help secure a site.

"We are not able to discuss specific site options as this information is commercially sensitive."

But in a statement regarding the sale of several vacant stations, a police spokesman said: "An approach has been made by PFS regarding the purchase of Cobham police station and the adjacent section house."

Free schools, introduced by the Government last year, allow parents, teachers, charities and businesses to set up their own schools within the state system.

On its website, the school has confirmed it is now accepting admissions applications for September for reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes. The school is holding a consultation event at Cobham Village Hall on February 25 from 10am to noon.

For more information, visit www.cobhamfreeschool.org.uk