Under the new scheme, an initial £50 penalty will be handed out to parents 'unwilling to secure an improvement' in attendance of a registered pupil.

The fine could double if not paid within 28 days.

Councillor Peter Kehoe, from North Somerset Council, said: "These measures are intended to remind parents of their responsibilities."

Other measures, including parenting contracts, arranged with schools, and legally-binding parenting orders, will also be used.

The council has also increased the number of education welfare officers it employs. They will be joining police on regular truancy sweeps.

The aim is to help schools meet new government targets for improvements in attendance figures by 2008.