January 19, 1979

The new headmaster of Abbey High School took up his post last week knowing that his school could be ripped down within the next three years.

Mr Eric Halsall (39) is well qualified to deal with the disaster if it comes though, for last year he presided over the closure of the Canon Frome Secondary School in Herefordshire.

For those who want to see the name of the school continue on even if the building goes, Mr Halsall said: "Whatever happens to the Abbey it will still retain the name Abbey High School."