The new head teacher of a North Belfast primary school said he is looking forward to taking up his new post at the helm of the school.

Sean Merrick, who is currently head teacher at Holy Rosary Primary School off the Ormeau Road, is set to replace Ciaran O’Grady at Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School in September.

Mr Merrick said he is looking forward to taking the reins at the Antrim Road primary whilst feeling sad about saying goodbye to his former school.

“The children themselves have been a joy to work with. Always enthusiastic and eager to please, they are a credit, not only to themselves, but also to their parents and the school. I wish them every success in the future,” he said. “While sorry to be leaving I am also looking forward to my new post and the challenges that it may bring.”

Fr Gerard Cassidy, Chairman of the Board of Governors at Our Lady of Lourdes PS has said he is looking forward to welcoming Sean Merrick to the school in September.

“Here in Our Lady of Lourdes PS we are pleased to welcome Mr Sean Merrick as principal and look forward to meeting him and working with him in the years ahead. The board says its fond farewells to Mr. Ciaran O'Grady and thank him for 24 years of service.”

Speaking of his decision Mr Merrick praised the staff and pupils of the South Belfast school of which he will be taking his leave.

“It is with mixed emotions that I will be leaving Holy Rosary, after having spent ten wonderful years as principal, to take up a position in another school,” he said