The chairman of governors at Rainham School for Girls has defended its part in Medway's 11-plus shambles.

The school, in Derwent Way, has found itself at the centre of controversy after exams overran at the centre by an hour-and-a-half.

Sheila Mann, chairman of governors at the school, has released a statement criticising the "poor administration" of the exams.

Parents have complained they were queuing for more than 40 minutes to register their children.

The initial delays led to the tests finishing 90 minutes late - leaving some children feeling sick, shaky and upset.

Ms Mann's statement said: "As chair of governors of Rainham School for Girls, in light of recent media coverage, I feel compelled to write to clarify the involvement of the school in the Medway Test on Saturday, September 24, 2011.

"On August 8, Rainham Girls’ School was approached by the student services manager at Medway Council to see if we could provide another venue, as the number of parents requesting the test had been underestimated. It was made very clear from the outset that the student services team at Medway Council would administer the test and supervise children on the day.

"We are proud of our students and the partnerships we have within the local community, thus the governors and head teacher were only too pleased to provide assistance to the local authority at no cost to them.

"Rainham School for Girls were not asked to provide any extra assistance other than premises access. The administration and organisation of the test on the day was agreed to be the sole responsibility of Medway Council, this is a fact that appears to be overlooked.

"The head teacher, all members of staff and governors share, and sympathise with, the frustration and disappointment felt by parents and candidates as a result of the poor administration of the test."

Medway Council has apologised for "any confusion that may have been caused" by the delay, but insisted children were not disadvantaged.