THE headteacher of one of Bolton’s top performing schools is to retire.

Canon Philip Williamson, head of Canon Slade School, announced to parents he was to leave the school.

He was appointed aftyer the retirement of The Revd Canon Dr Peter Shepherd.

Canon Williamson announced his decision, which he said came after much “thought and prayer”, in a letter to parents and pupils today.

He wrote: “Being the head of Canon Slade School has been the greatest joy and privilege of my teaching career.

“The culture, Christian ethos and traditions of this school make it such a special place.

"I will miss the school enormously, though I hope to keep in close association with it in the years to come.

“I am, however, looking forward to my retirement and will not miss the alarm clock going off at 5.30am each morning.

“I have every confidence that Canon Slade School will continue into an ever brighter future.”