THE headmaster of a North-East public school has resigned following a prolonged leave of absence.

Michael Featherstone, of Barnard Castle School, County Durham, took leave just before Christmas and letters have been sent to parents this week informing them of his departure.

Yesterday, a spokesman for the school would not comment on the reasons for Mr Featherstone's departure.

Mr Featherstone, a former England hockey international, joined the school in 1996 from Ryde School in the Isle of Wight.

During his time in charge, the school enjoyed considerable success and in 2000 the school celebrated its best GCSE results in its history.

The deputy headmaster, David Ewart, will remain in temporary charge of the school. The spokesman added that a decision had not been made on the appointment of a new head.