In the first two months of this academic year the council has brought proceedings against 29 parents.

This compares with 32 cases brought to court in the whole of the previous year.

The council says this does not mean more children are going truant but more measures are being taken.

We talk to the families and try to look at the obstacles to getting in to school and overcome them

councillor Chris Wynn

Parents who continue to let their children miss school are likely to face a fine or even a jail term.

The moves are in line with the government's new crackdown on truancy.

But the council points out these are only the most prolific truants.

Many cases are dealt with by educational welfare officers and the parent's are never brought to trial.

Councillor Chris Wynn, cabinet member for lifelong learning, said: "We talk to the families and try to look at the obstacles to getting in to school and overcome them.

"Even as a last resort we give families six weeks to improve their children's attendance."