@gillybob
I remember the trauma when I went to appeal for my own son, so I sympathise. I know how stressful it is.
At the time I thought I had a rock solid case, but I was still turned down. I really think you should think what will happen if it fails, because I know I didn't really think about it - I just blocked it out, because I was so convinced I would win.
The school's case will be that admitting another child would cause 'prejudice to the efficient use and access to resources', which it can prove if it's reached its PAN. You have to prove that your case is stronger, which is very difficult to do. You have to prove that this school can offer something which no other school can.
1) Is there a school nearer than the current school with places? This is crucial, because the panel will say that the children should be going there. If it is over 2 miles, the authority has a duty to provide transport, which knocks your argument on its head. If it's under 2 miles, the child is supposed to walk. I know that seems tough, but it's the law. From my experience, transport arrangements counted for nothing. If there is no other school than the current one, the authority must by law provide transport.
2) I don't think the appeal panel will consider whether the 40 day rule was broken. That's a matter for the Local Government Ombudsman and they will only take it up, if it affected the outcome of the appeal.
3) They will probably come up with some excuse and you'll need evidence they're lying and that it affected the offer of a place.
4) The inspection isn't really relevant.
It really shouldn't matter that the local councillor is a governor, because the council shouldn't influence appeals nor should governors. The people who matter are the panel and if you think any of them is prejudiced, you have the right to say so.
If there is a place available in another school, would the child be able to go to the preferred secondary school?
You might find it easier to get a secondary school place by going on the waiting list and hoping that somebody leaves. As your daughter lives so close to the school, the child should be towards the top of the waiting list.