The headteacher of a small West Cumbrian school is leaving to take on a post at a larger primary.

Chris Steele has announced he will leave Crosscanonby St John's Primary School at the end of this term.

Mr Steele, 36, has been appointed head of Fairfield Junior School in Cockermouth.

He replaces Fairfield head Andrea Pattinson who has retired.

Julia Sutton, the acting head at Fairfield, will remain as deputy head.

Mr Steele said his 18 months at the tiny Crosby school had been memorable.

He added: "I am only leaving because of this once-in-a-career opportunity."

Fairfield is a large primary school and Cockermouth is where Mr Steele lives.

Mr Steele is a champion mountain racer who has represented England. He is also a member of the Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team.

Crosscanonby was his first headship.

During his time, he has used his running as a life lesson for children.

He has also been keen to promote fitness in the school orgnaising a sponsored walk to raise money for tablets

An Ofsted report in November last year commented that: "Considerable improvements have been made since January in a wide range of areas."