A headteacher at a primary school has been thanked for his "hard work and dedication" after stepping down.

Wayne Beech was appointed head of school at Martello Primary in Folkestone in April 2019 and was later promoted to principal.

To mark his final day at the helm of the Warren Way school, pupils created 'farewell' bunting.

Mr Beech said: "The pupils and their families, the Martello team and the community are wonderful assets to the school, and I have enjoyed every moment of leading Martello.

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"I am proud to have been part of its journey to becoming the fabulous school it is today."

Louise Lythgoe, director of primary at Turner Schools, will take on day-to-day running of the school, assisted by vice principal Charlotte Speed.

Mr Beech will be leaving the school to focus on supporting his family and reduce the extensive amount of time he spends travelling each day.

Seamus Murphy, chief executive at Turner Schools which runs the primary, said: "We are sorry to say goodbye to Wayne and want to thank him for his hard work and dedication towards to the pupils of Martello Primary.

"Under Wayne's leadership the school has come on significantly, and we wish him every success for the future.

"His work will be safe in the hands of Louise and Charlotte who are both excellent and experienced senior leaders."