THE future of a deputy head teacher who was cleared of sex attacks on pupils is still unclear after it was revealed he was still suspended from his job.

John Cartmell, 51, of Manchester Road, Hapton, Burnley, was found not guilty by a unanimous verdict at Preston Crown Court last Friday of charges of indecent assault on three boys at St Mary's RC Primary School, Oswaldtwistle.

He has been suspended from his job for more than two years since the allegations were made in May 1999.

But even though the claims have been proved false, Mr Cartmell, a teacher for more than 30 years, is still waiting to hear whether he will be able to return to his job in September if he wants it back.

His solicitor Festan Kwasnik said he was aware the suspension was still in place, but had not yet discussed the position with Mr Cartmell.

He added: "I've not yet had a chance to talk about the employment situation with Mr Cartmell or been instructed by him as to any action, but the question of his suspension being lifted is something that will be decided or otherwise by others."

A spokesman for Lancashire County Council confirmed Mr Cartmell was still suspended and said: "We have received the verdict of the court and now need to review the information that came to light during the case.

"It is still too early to say what the final outcome will be, but clearly we need to discuss the situation with Mr Cartmell, his representatives and the school."

Nobody at the school was available to comment.