THE headteacher of a Darlington school, who resigned last week, has left his post three weeks early.

Richard Appleton resigned from Eastbourne Comprehensive School at the same time as the chairman of governors, Councillor Ian Haszeldine.

Darlington Borough Council had said Mr Appleton would stay in the post until the end of the month, but yesterday it was confirmed that he had already left the school.

It is believed that Mr Appleton will remain on the school's pay roll until the end of the month despite no longer working there as the headteacher.

A council spokesman stressed that no irregularities had led to Mr Appleton's resignation and early departure.

Mr Appleton had said he would pursue a role elsewhere in education, while Coun Hazeldine, who is also a member of Darlington council, said he had too heavy a workload to continue as a governor.

Mr Appleton's post will be filled on a temporary basis by deputy headteacher Karen Pemberton.