THE former executive head of a pioneering school hit by claims of bullying and truancy has attacked education chiefs over the suspension of its headteacher.

The Northern Echo revealed earlier this month how Karen Pemberton had been suspended from her position at Eastbourne School, in Darlington, after an audit report produced damning findings.

Darlington Borough Council launched an investigation after the report showed that some pupils' behaviour was out of control, truancy levels were a big cause for concern and staff were overwhelmed by the problems.

The claims came as a surprise to many, as Eastbourne had become one half of the Government's first "education federation" after linking with the top-performing Hurworth School in an effort to raise standards.

The federation will come to an end in July - a year ahead of schedule - because officials said it had been successful in enhancing the performance and quality of both schools.

Last night, David Henderson, one of Darlington's most prominent education figures, criticised the local authority for its part in Eastbourne's problems.

Mr Henderson, who was head of Hummersknott School for 20 years and was drafted in as executive head of Eastbourne from December 2002 to July 2003, said Ms Pemberton did not deserve the treatment she had received.

He said she had been instrumental in the school lifting itself out of the special measures category imposed on it by Ofsted in 2002.

He said: "Everyone worked really hard to turn the school around, including Karen, providing sound leadership even though she had been a deputy for only five terms.

"All students were proud of their school and I was proud of the achievements and the loyal dedication of most of the staff led by Karen. She does not deserve this treatment."

A council spokesman said: "The investigation is ongoing and it would be inappropriate to make any comment until it is completed."