A HEADTEACHER who has returned to the same school time and time again is leaving for the last time - to take retirement.

Ted Young, 58, started his career as a teacher at St Patrick's RC Primary School, in Consett, in 1969. After teaching for two years, he went to Australia for four years before returning to St Patrick's.

Mr Young taught at the school for 14 years before being appointed a deputy headteacher at Brooms RC School, in Leadgate. He then became headteacher at St Godric's RC Primary School, in Durham, before returning to St Patrick's.

He said: "It has been something of a love affair with St Patrick's. All three of my sons came to school here.

"I put it down to it being a fantastic school with fantastic children and traditions."

"We try to be a caring community and endeavour to care for and support each other."

During Mr Young's time as headteacher, the school has won national recognition with four awards - the Healthy Schools Award, the Active Mark Gold Award, the International Schools Award and the Football Association Charter Mark.

Mr Young, who plans to spend more time playing golf, will be replaced by Pat Henson.