OUTSPOKEN headteacher Mike Chapman is calling for better education about mental health issues claiming it is the "Cinderella service" of the NHS.

Mr Chapman, a headteacher for the past 25 years, is to be a member of the newly formed Bolton Salford and Trafford Mental Health Partnership Trust.

The new NHS body controls everything concerning mental health policies in the three towns, and was formed by the Government in April this year.

Mr Chapman, a former chairman of Bolton's Community Health Council and former member of the Wigan and Bolton Health Authority, is to become Bolton's voice.

He has taken up the new mantle after announcing he is to retire from Brandwood Primary School, Daubhill, at Christmas.

Mr Chapman said: "I feel there needs to be better education available to the public about mental health issues, especially as it effects 25 per cent of the population in any one year.

"It is frightening how little mental health is understood."

Mr Chapman believes the new partnership will improve services for mental health sufferers in Bolton.

He said: "I feel quite strongly that this area is very misunderstood and is the Cinderella service.

"Merging the three towns will strengthen the organisation and it will now be able to attract psychiatrists and other health professionals."

Mr Chapman, who will be paid £5,000 for his role on the committee, praised work already being done between social services, the hospital and the partnership.