RETIRED head teacher Maurice Maloney, who was in charge at Leigh St Joseph's Catholic Primary School for 18 years, has died aged 75.

A former St Joseph's pupil, he trained as a teacher and after teaching at two local schools returned to St Joseph's as a staff member. He spent the rest of his career at the school, becoming head in 1961. Ill health forced his retirement in 1979.

He was church organist for 54 years and involved in many parish activities.

His Requiem Mass will be at St. Joseph's Church at noon next Tuesday followed by interment at Leigh Cemetery.