OLD Cleeve First School has been taken out of 'special measures' after nearly 18 months' dedicated work by staff and pupils.

Just over a week ago Ofsted inspectors lifted the failing designation imposed in November, 2000.

The full results of their report will not be available for at least another month, but headteacher Christine Stamp said she was delighted.

Mrs Stamp, who was drafted in as a locum head in January, 2001, but has now taken up the position permanently, paid tribute to the hard work of teachers and support staff across the whole school.

"The core of the staff has remained unchanged and everybody has put in a tremendous effort. We are numb but thrilled with the Ofsted decision."

Inspectors have been visiting the 79-pupil school every term since it was put into special measures following a full scale Ofsted inspection in 2000.

And among the key issues outlined for improvement were leadership and management, pupils' attendance, behaviour and attitude to learning, the eradication of unsatisfactory teaching and raising the standard of pupils' attainment and progress.