THE headteacher of a Bury special school has been suspended while education chiefs investigate the alleged misuse of computer equipment.

Mr Bernard Emblem was removed from his post at Millwood Primary Special School by the governing body on May 17, just days before an impressive report by Ofsted inspectors was published in the Bury Times.

The Local Education Authority is investigating the allegations of "management irregularities" concerning school computer equipment, although at this stage the police are not involved.

Mr Emblem has been headteacher of the Fletcher Fold Road school, which caters for around 80 youngsters with either moderate or severe learning difficulties, since 1991. Last month Ofsted inspectors praised Mr Emblem's commitment and running of the school, which had made good improvements since its 1997 inspection.

Their report said: "The leadership and management of the school by the headteacher are sound and ensure that the day-to-day running of the school is smooth and efficient.

"The governing body meets regularly and is very well informed of the school's activities by the headteacher."

A spokesman for Bury Council said: "We can confirm that the headteacher has been suspended due to alleged management irregularities in regard to the use of school equipment."

Deputy headteacher Mrs Joan Hall is standing in for Mr Emblem during his absence.

Bury's chief education officer Harold Williams said: "A suspension is a neutral act pending an investigation."