IT'S a case of changes at the top for two local schools -- Eccleston Primary welcomes new headteacher Elizabeth Fletcher, while St Gregory's has a new deputy head, Darren Darbyshire.

Mrs Fletcher takes from over at the school in Doctors Lane from the outgoing John McCloskey, who retired just before Christmas after 14 years in charge.

Previously deputy head at Euxton CE, she has taught at numerous other schools in the Chorley area since 1991, including Balshaw Lane Primary, Adlington St Paul's and Brindle Gregson Lane.

This is her first head teaching post and she says she is looking forward to sustaining and building on the successes of the school.

Mrs Fletcher, originally from Formby, but has lived in Chorley for 12 years. She said: "I am looking forward to getting to know the children and the whole community connected to Eccleston Primary School.

"I know that working together we can sustain and build on the successes of the school for the future."

Meanwhile, Darren Darbyshire, from Wigan, has joined St Gregory's Catholic Primary, Eaves Green Road, Chorley, as deputy head moving from St Bernadette's, Shevington, where he taught for seven years.

He will teach year four pupils and specialises in PE, maths and literacy.

Linda Caswell, head teacher at the school, said: "He's looking forward to teaching his new pupils and we've had a very positive response from the children."