A HEAD teacher who used to star for Kidderminster Harriers has been appointed to take over the reins at Baxter College.

David Seddon, who was a stalwart centreback for Harriers between 1979 and 1981, has been given the task of turning around the school, formerly Harry Cheshire High.

He was appointed after a nationwide trawl for a "super head" who could dramatically improve the school, which has struggled with poor exam results and a negative image problem.

Mr Seddon is currently head at Wodensborough Community Technology College in Sandwell, where he has had a major impact. During his 11 years in charge intake has trebled, and the number of pupils getting five or more A-C grades at GCSE has gone up fivefold. The school was also nominated as most improved specialist school last year.

He said: "My aim will be to ensure that Baxter College becomes a world-class organisation which will promote life-long learning for the whole Kidderminster community and plays its part in raising standards in the area."

Changes have already been introduced at the school this term, under the acting head Allan Gilhooley and the management of 3E's Enterprises, a private company specialising in helping ailing schools.

Mike Dickins, chairman of governors at Baxter College, added: "We are extremely pleased to have been able to appoint David Seddon, who fulfils all our expectations of the calibre of leader required for this demanding role."

Colin Youngjohns, chairman of the Harriers, said he was delighted to hear David Seddon was due to return to the area.

"He made 45 appearances for us, scoring one goal. I remember him as an organiser in the centre of the defence.

"He was an integral part of our team strengthening process at that time. He has an excellent pedigree - he was very tenacious and committed and an intelligent reader of the game. I'm sure his strength of personality will stand him in good stead."