THE principal of a town's first city academy has been appointed.

Eddie Brady, the head of Hermitage School, in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, will take over at the Unity City Academy, in east Middlesbrough, in January.

He will lead the new academy through the development of its curriculum and buildings and help steer the transition from Langbaurgh and Keldholme Schools, which it will replace.

Mr Brady was chosen from more than 30 candidates from all over the UK who applied for the headship of the £16m academy, catering for 1,200 students and the wider community.

Excavation and investigation works have already begun on the site, between Keldholme and Langbaurgh Schools, with the completion date set for September 2003.

David McGahey, managing director of Amey education, the project's sponsor, said: "I am delighted with Eddie Brady's appointment. It will be good to have someone with his experience and background to help us shape the vision for the academy and turn it into a reality."

Mr Brady said: "I am looking forward to this challenging opportunity to work with committed colleagues, students and their families. This first city academy will be a great boost to the community, providing access to learning and a centre of regeneration."