MYSTERY surrounds the suspension of a teacher at Tottington High School.

It is understood that he was suspended in February following a complaint and has remained on full pay while the circumstances are investigated.

The school's head, Mr Alan Scott, the chairman of governors, Coun Bill Johnson, and Bury MBC's director of education, Mr Harold Williams, all refused to identify the teacher or the nature of the complaint. It is not known if parents have been informed about the suspension.

A statement issued on Wednesday by Bury MBC said: "We can confirm that a member of staff has been suspended from Tottington High School and that we are investigating an allegation of misconduct.

"However, it is important to note that suspension in such cases is our routine and normal procedure, pending the outcome of an investigation. We are hoping to complete that as soon as possible." The investigation is being carried out by education welfare officers who will report their findings to the school governors. They will make the final decision, though the teacher concerned will have the right of appeal.

It is believed that the police are not involved.