A FORMER Taunton teacher is back in town as the new headteacher at Archbishop Cranmer Primary School.

Somerset born and bred Shirley McBride, who has worked in schools for 26 years, has moved from the headship at Old Cleeve First School, in Watchet.

Before that she spent five years as deputy headteacher at Holy Trinity Primary School, in Taunton.

Mrs McBride, who is married with two daughters, said: "I'm really pleased to be back in Taunton and ABC is a lovely school.

"Along with the governors, staff and children, I wish to continue to support a fully inclusive school with aspirations for all our pupils.

"I'll seek to maintain standards with provision of a flexible and creative curriculum.

"And I want to build on the successes under the leadership of Alan Boxer, who was headteacher here for seven years, and the school's very goof Ofsted inspection last year."

She also plans to strengthen links with the Church and community and to extend opportunities for children through the creative arts and extended school provision.