HEADTEACHER Frances Burns was given the ingredients for success when she was officially welcomed to her new appointment at the helm of Watchet's Knights Templar First School.

A commissioning service at the town's Methodist Church gave pupils the chance to read out A Recipe for a Great Headteacher, which they had written for the occasion.

Parents, staff, governors, school supporters and invited guests attended the service last Friday, including the Rev Peter Pillinger, chairman of the Plymouth and Exeter Methodist District, and Pauline Dodds from the Diocese of Bath and Wells.

A special proclamation from Watchet town crier Alec Danby launched the event, with the service being led by the Rev Jane Sperring.

She was helped with contributions from pupils of all ages who shared readings, prayers and paintings.

Mrs Burns, who took up her post at the beginning of September, said: "This was a very special welcome and the children excelled in their ideas, singing and presentation.

"I really appreciated the moving comments the children made and will try my hardest to provide the best for each child."