A FORMER pupil of a school near Tenbury has returned as headmaster.

William Lockett aged 44, has just taken over as headmaster at Abberley Hall School, succeeding retiring head John Walker, who completed 18 years of service.

He attended Abberley in the 1980s and went on to Winchester College and then Manchester University where he obtained a first class honours degree in classics.

His teaching career began in Wiltshire at Dauntsey’s School and continued at Bryanston School in Dorset where he taught classics and was a housemaster for a senior boys’ boarding house.

“We are thrilled to have selected Will as our new headmaster,” said David Legh, chairman of Abberley’s board of governors.

"He is steeped in the tradition of our school but he will nevertheless brings new ideas and aspirations.

“He takes over at an important time in the school’s history as it approaches its centenary celebrations.

“Pupil numbers are flourishing and there has been a remarkable level of investment in recent years, with the completion of a new classroom block, improved dormitories and studies and more staff accommodation.”

Mr Lockett is married to Beth and they have three children aged 13, 11 and nine. He is an experienced beekeeper.