AFTER 36 years in education, an east Durham headteacher is preparing to bid a final farewell to school life.

Bill Mulligan has been at the helm at St Bede's Catholic Comprehensive School for the past 16 years and staff are planning a gala goodbye for the popular head.

During his long career, Mr Mulligan has taught at St Leonard's in Durham, St John's in Bishop Auckland, St Bede's in Lanchester and St Benet Biscop in Bedlington.

To pay tribute to his long and distinguished career, and as a mark of appreciation, a night of events is being arranged to mark the significant educational role he has played.

The evening will include a celebration of Mass in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, in Peterlee, on Tuesday, July 17 at 7pm.

The service will be followed by a social function in the Banqueting Suite of Shotton Hall beginning at 8pm.

It is hoped that as many people who knew Mr Mulligan will take part in the celebrations.

Anyone who would like to attend or knows of anyone who may be interested in being at the function should contact Joan Gray at St Bede's at Westway, Peterlee, Co Durham, SR8 1DE or telephone 0191-5862291.