THE head teacher of King David Junior School has been presented with a long service award for teaching, ten months before he is due to retire.

Mr Eric Wilson was awarded the honour by Manchester City Council along with five colleagues from King David. In total they have more than 200 years' teaching experience.

He said: "I am pleased that Manchester recognises the services teachers give to the local authority."

And with 44 years under his belt, Mr Wilson, the longest serving of the group, is ready to call it a day next summer.

The 68-year-old, who lives in Whitefield, was due to retire three years ago but after persuasion from the governors he agreed to stay on.

His job has been advertised in the national press and the school is seeking an experienced head teacher with "commitment and enthusiasm". Mr Wilson, who is originally from Liverpool, joined the Crumpsall junior school 26 years ago from Manchester Jewish Grammar School, in Prestwich, where he was head teacher for 14 years.

The father-of-five, who has 14 grandchildren, said: "I settled in very quickly and have been very happy here. I got on well with the Jewish community, although I am not Jewish myself.

"When I came to King David it was a challenge.

"I was asked to maintain the academic standard of the school and develop its sport and activities."

"I have managed to achieve both aims and I am not leaving because I am anxious to leave," he added. "In fact, I find it very sad but perhaps it's time to make way for a young and enthusiastic head teacher."

Mr Wilson, who is also the head of the upper campus, which includes King David High School and the sixth form, said: "I have really enjoyed my teaching career and met some important people. I was particularly impressed with the guy who defended OJ Simpson and, although not a supporter of his politics, I was very impressed with William Hague."

Mr Wilson, who has also been a magistrate in Bury for 20 years, said he plans to enjoy his retirement by devoting more time to his passion, sport.

He plays golf at Whitefield Golf Club and is keen football fan, supporting Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers.