The vast majority of pupils in Lancashire will be going to one of their preferred schools or academies this September.

Figures for secondary school admissions show that nearly 97% of pupils have been successful with one of their preferences. 86.48% will get their first preference, 7.61% will go to schools which were their second, while 2.63% will attend their third preference school. 3.28% have been allocated a place at other schools.

The numbers of those receiving preferred places is likely to rise as appeals are heard and other adjustments are made.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: "Waiting to find out which secondary school you've been allocated can be an anxious time, for both parents and children. I have first-hand experience of this, so I know exactly how parents feel at this time.

"I'm pleased to know that nearly 97% will be getting one of their three preferences and that 86.48% have their first preference. Importantly, every pupil whose application was received on time has been allocated a secondary school place.

"School places are allocated fairly and objectively, and every application is agreed upon using the criteria which have been set out for that school.

"Our admissions team do a good job advising parents how to use their preferences wisely, and what to do if they are unhappy with the place they've got. There's still a lot of movement with the allocation of school places between now and September."

This year 96% of parents overall chose to complete their application online.

Edwina Grant OBE, Lancashire County Council's executive director for education and children's services, said: "We are extremely pleased that yet again we have been able to match the overwhelming majority of young people with their first choice of secondary school.

"We understand how emotive the decision of secondary school can be. Our admissions team has worked hard to ensure that such a high number of our young people are able to attend a school of their choice."

Parents will receive details about who to contact for advice and information on school admissions and appeals in the offer letter or email they receive.

Appeals are heard locally and those for Lancashire secondary schools will take place during the summer term.

Find out more about schools in Lancashire at www.lancashire.gov.uk/schools