A LONG-running battle between a headteacher and an East Lancashire primary school has entered a new phase.

Peter Cunningham, former head at Sacred Heart RC Primary, Colne, is taking his ex-school and employers Lancashire County Council to an industrial tribunal claiming unfair dismissal and breach of contract.

Mr Cunningham, of Skipton Old Road, Colne, was suspended in January 2008 over alleged financial irregularities at the Red Lane school.

An investigation had been undertaken by county council auditors after concerns regarding VAT discrepancies and large overtime payments were first highlighted in April 2007.

The payments also involved Club 2000, an organisation responsible for organising breakfast, holiday and after-school activities for Sacred Heart, a Manchester employment tribunal was told.

Sarah Oldenthorpe, a senior auditor for the county council, told the tribunal in Manchester that Mr Cunningham was to blame for ‘inadequate and ineffective’ financial management of the school.

Mr Cunningham, who was dismissed after an appeal hearing in February 2009, claims auditors had ‘predetermined’ opinions and ‘bias’ before undertaking their investigation.

Mr Cunningham will also argue that he was prejudiced by not having a solicitor present at his appeal hearing.

(Proceeding)

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