THE acting headmaster of the John Masefield High School, Andy Evans, has been appointed as the new permanent head.

He will officially take over from Chris Tweedale in January.

Chairman of the governors Jackie Denman said: "We already knew that Andy could be an outstanding head, because he has demonstrated that as the acting head.

"The position attracted interest from a strong national field eager to lead John Masefield High School. After two days of interviews, Andy came through."

Mr Evans, 42, lives in Upton with his wife Elaine and their son Jake.

He said: "It's a great honour to be appointed as headteacher. I have tremendously enjoyed my six years at the school as deputy head.

"Under Chris Tweedale's leadership the school has made considerable progress over the last eight years.

"We have some superb students and excellent staff, a very supportive governing body and a council on which we can always rely."

Mr Tweedale has moved on to become a Government education advisor four days a week and will work for Herefordshire Council's education department for the other day each week.