Education recovery board monitoring Denbighshire ends

Denbighshire council has welcomed a decision to wind up a "recovery board" set up to monitor its failing education services.

The board was set up by fornmer Education Minister Jane Hutt following a damning report by schools watchdog Estyn in 2007.

The council said the decision signified "the confidence in the progress made to improve education in the county".

The board's final report said progress had been made, but more work remained.

The report said: "The board applauds the progress and consolidation that has taken place over the last year, but recognises that many of the key outcomes can only be achieved in the longer term.

"It also notes that the authority has articulated a clear and realistic strategic direction for the future and is positive about meeting the challenges ahead."

Council leader Hugh Evans said: "The initial Estyn report made very uncomfortable reading and from the outset, councillors from all political parties agreed that improving schools and education was going to be our top priority.

"Children and young people in Denbighshire deserve the best and we have put greater investment into our schools at a time when councils are tightening their belts."