One of Ulster's most prestigious schools has struck a blow for schoolgirl
decency - by slapping a ban on black stockings, rolled up skirts and high
heels.
Methodist College Belfast is set to introduce a new uniform policy to bring
down its pupils' hem lines and heel heights.
The move comes after young girls attending the renowned south Belfast school
attracted unwanted attention earlier this year when a debate on the way some
wear their uniform was sparked by the Belfast Telegraph.
Our features editor and columnist Gail Walker caused controversy when she
accused Methody pupils of "tottering around Belfast looking like a
take-off of the old saucy schoolgirl joke" through wearing sheer black
stockings, micro skirts and high heels.
The school has now clamped down on the problem by bringing in new uniform
regulations for the forthcoming academic year.
The rules state that the girls' skirts must be knee-length, tights must be
at least 60 denier and shoes must be flat or no higher than two inches.
Parents have even been given a diagram outlining the new policy to ensure
their daughters comply.
No-one could be contacted for comment at Methody last night as the school
was closed.
However, Alison Loughlin of the Parents Forum, who has a son studying at
Methody, welcomed the new policy and said other schools should take note.
"This is back to basics. Having a uniform and having it standardised
is good," she told Radio Ulster's TalkBack programme.
"It should be across all schools. Methody girls aren't the only girls
who roll up their skirts. I don't think it's fair to target these girls."
Ms Loughlin said it was also important for all pupils to remember that they
are ambassadors for their school when they are out and about in uniform.
Methody, as the college which is located close to Queen's University is
commonly known, is one of Northern Ireland's leading grammar schools and has
around 1,850 pupils.
It is understood that the new uniform policy was drawn up by
Scott Naismith, formerly the head of Regent House School in Newtownards, who
has joined the college as its new principal.
Hi: 17°C / Lw: 13°C
Revealed: Ulster's most dangerous roads
Deputy First Minister in Baghdad for peace mission
Thomas Beattie gives birth to healthy baby girl
Iran warns: attack us and we'll strike you back
Swimsuit photo shoot in buildup to Vietnam final
Federer and Nadal set for Centre court final
Mandela honoured with the class of 2008
Supporters that made Euro 2008 one to remember
Fashion of the wives throughout the tournament
Pop princess Minogue wows fans at Odyssey gig
Try your luck in our GAA 'pick the score' competition
Looking forward to the famous biking event
Ship's Belfast beginnings celebrated in exhibition
Applauding Ulster's most exceptional women
Special report on Northern Ireland's worst house fire
Celebrating excellence at the inaugural awards gala 
Special multimedia report on Belfast Wheel