New head teachers have been appointed to two primary schools in Winchester.

Governors of St Peter's Catholic School, in Oliver's Battery Road North, say it was a "unanimous" decision to appoint Catherine Howells, acting head since Marjorie Dean went on sick leave 11 months ago.

Deputy chairman of governors, Sue Broadbent, said: "We had a very strong field of candidates and Cath came top due to her experience and vision of where the school can go for the next 10 years."

Mrs Howells has been at St Peter's since 1999 and previously taught in Southampton and Chandler's Ford. The school is now seeking a new deputy head after the previous incumbent, Claire Logan, decided not to return to work after having a baby.

St Faith's CofE Primary, St Cross, has also appointed a new head teacher. Acting deputy, Peter Burbridge, was officially named as the school's new figurehead on April 25, though the post does not become effective until June 5.

Mr Burbridge, from Romsey, joined St Faith's as deputy head last September. He succeeds John Preston, who led the school for 12 years, but retired earlier this year due to ill health. A spokesman for St Faith's said the parents, governors and staff were delighted with the appointment.