HUNDREDS of parents from a Malvern school have hit out at having to travel an hour round trip just to buy uniforms.

A petition has been launched by parents from The Chase school, which calls for a change to its plan of only having uniforms in stock at a shop in Worcester.

According to the petition, instead of buying from Kitz and Kidz in Malvern Link, as in previous years, parents have to order from Monkhouse in New Street, Worcester.

The petition, signed by more than 350 people reads: "At a time of the worst cost of living and fuel crisis since the 1990s, it is unbelievable for the school to limit the supply to one single shop that is not even in our town.

"Buying uniform online is not always straightforward as it can be tricky to judge sizes and you may need to order several sizes to get the right fit.

"We are not asking for a sole supplier.

"We just want parents to have the choice to shop wherever is best for them whether that is Worcester or Malvern." 

Chase School issued a statement confirming it had chosen Monkhouse after a tendering process, finding them to be the best option.

It also said a number of drop-in sessions will take place at the school to allow parents to buy uniforms there if they cannot get to Worcester.

Monkhouse is also allowing click and collect to be done through the school.

A spokesperson said: "After the results were reviewed, it was very clear that one supplier should be awarded the contract, which was Monkhouse. 

"We are aware that the Monkhouse store in Malvern closed last year. This was a concern which was discussed with them.

"As a result of our discussions, Monkhouse will be offering pop up shops within school, to negate the need to travel to Worcester. 

"Monkhouse have also reassured us that they have implemented fundamental changes since the pandemic, with improvements made to their distribution centre and uniform availability with stock arriving two months earlier than pre-pandemic timescales.

"However we are fully aware of the implications of this decision for some parents and we will continue to review this situation during the forthcoming year.

"If parents feel that they need better access, we can request that additional pop up shops happen on the school site."