Many schools are expected to have an increasing number of surplus places and meetings have been held with parents and teachers to highlight the issue.

The findings of this "pre-consultation work" will be studied by a policy working group at the county council.

The council said resources must be used efficiently, but has insisted no action will be taken without consultation.

School campaigners

Councillor Patricia Bradwell, Lincolnshire County Council's executive councillor for children's services, said: "We have to make sure we're using resources to get the best value for the children of Lincolnshire, and that our schools are providing top quality education.

"As part of that commitment, we're looking at the possibility of some mergers, but I can guarantee that no decisions will be taken without full consultation."

But two MPs have offered campaigners their support in attempts to stop any closures or mergers.

Edward Leigh, the MP for Gainsborough, visited Holton-Le-Moor school, which could be shut due to falling numbers.

Action considered

And the MP for Lincoln, Gillian Merron has visited the St Giles infants which could be merged with Myle Cross juniors.

It is estimated that by 2007-8 there will be 2,068 surplus places in the county's 35 separate infant and junior schools, with 1,231 of these in the Lincoln area alone.

In several instances the infant and junior schools share a single site or are situated very close to each other.

After discussion at the Children's Services Policy Working Group they will be presented to the Executive on 7 December, when it will be considered whether to move forward and go to full consultation.