I AM writing in response to the article "Troubleshooter appointed to Hameldon College" (Lancashire Telegraph, August 11).

Richard Hooper is not a "troubleshooter." He is a new governor who brings a vast array of educational experience to the team supporting the head teacher and staff of Hameldon Community College.

In a 30-year career Richard went from being on economics teacher to head of Adult Learning and Cultural Services for the whole of Lancashire.

His appointment as a governor is a continuation of the support the county council has been giving to the school.

The governors drew up a detailed action plan immediately after the inspection, and the school is addressing the Ofsted key areas for improvement with determination.

Copies are available from the school in Byron Street.

Hameldon was only six months old when it was inspected by Ofsted.

In the last term there has been a noticeable strengthening of the team spirit of both staff and students as they become used to each other and the new facilities.

The school is continuing to take steps to improve standards, behaviour, time-keeping and attendance, and is fully supported by a team of advisers and consultants from the county council.

Because of impending exams, some pupils were still in the groups from their old schools during the last academic year.

From September all students will be in fully integrated classes which will help cement the unity of the school.

The most important people at Hameldon are the pupils.

It is vital that we do everything we can to create a positive environment for their education - free from sniping by cynical people who would undermine the school to score political points.

MARCUS JOHNSTONE, Cabinet member for Children and Young People, Lancashire County Council.