FRUSTRATED parents are demanding answers following the suspension of a Lymm principal.

Mounting concerns from worried parents at Lymm High School have hit new heights this week with claims that the public are ‘being kept in the dark’.

Angela Walsh, who has been principal at the school since 2008, was suspended on Thursday, June 20, after a flood of complaints.

One concerned parent, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “We just want answers so we can put the rumours to bed. We all deserve to know what happened.”

“I know that several Freedom of Information requests have been sent to the school but they have had no reply. What is the school hiding?”

Kieran Walshe, chairman of the governors, confirmed that the investigation had begun and all FOI requests were being dealt with.

Mr Walshe said: “The decision to suspend the principal was taken by the chairman and vice-chairman of the governing body, in line with the school’s disciplinary procedure and after taking advice from senior officers at Warrington Borough Council.

“Governors met last week and the full governing body ratified the decision to suspend. An investigation is now underway.”

Speculation has been rife following the sudden suspension of Ms Walsh, but Mr Walshe was unable to comment on the investigation any further amid fears it could jeopardise proceedings.

Ms Walsh’s suspension is alleged to be linked to the high staff turnover and the implementation of ‘petty’ rules.

Mr Walshe said: “The governing body is acutely aware of the concerns in the community, and is determined to put in place interim leadership arrangements which will command the confidence of staff, parents and the whole school community.

“We are currently working on this issue, with advice and support from Warrington Borough Council and others. We will provide more details on these arrangements as soon as we can.”

It remains unclear whether acting principal Suzanne Finlay will remain in the post for much longer.

Concerns have continued to grow over the absence of vice principal for finance and community, Jamie Sheils.

It has been confirmed that Mr Sheils is currently ‘off sick’ and it is unknown when he will return to the post.

Despite the ongoing problems at the school, Mr Walshe wishes to assure parents that lessons are continuing to run smoothly.

A number of successful events were enjoyed by pupils last week, including a performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and the year 11 prom.

The school on Oughtrington Lane has also filled all its teaching posts in preparation for the start of the academic year in September.

There will be a full complement of permanent teaching staff, despite more than 40 teachers leaving at the end of the term.