GOVERNORS of Hatherleigh Primary School have selected a new headteacher who they believe will bring the school together after two unsettling years.

Linda Mitchell, who is currently acting head at a primary school in Swindon, will take over the headship after Christmas.

Over a long career, Mrs Mitchell has taught in both primary and secondary schools throughout the country but this will be her first post in Devon.

She will fill the job previously held by Barbara Shaw who left in July after four years at the helm to study a doctorate in education at Warwick University.

Chairman of governors Jill Neilson said when the interviews were conducted in September Mrs Mitchell shone out.

'She obviously has the academic experience to be the new head but we believe she has the qualities and strength needed to bring the school together and lead a strong team of teachers,' she said.

'She is hugely enthusiastic and has a lovely way with people, especially children.'

Major staffing problems, including the death of two members of staff, caused a 'huge upheaval' at the school and this was followed by the foot and mouth crisis of which Hatherleigh was right in the centre.

'It has been a very unsettling time and the most important thing is that we get someone who is going to stay,' said Mrs Neilson.

'Being a headteacher is quite a lonely job and the candidate we have chosen portrays the sort of person who will be able to cope with this.'

Mrs Mitchell's husband Peter is also a teacher and will be looking for new work in Devon when the couple move to the Hatherleigh area later this year.

They have two grown up sons.

The new head will be the guest at a governors meeting in Hatherleigh on November 22. This is being seen as an opportunity where parents can meet and talk with Mrs Mitchell.

The acting head is currently Robin Hill who has been with the school for 15 years and is deputy head.