SOUTH Wilts Grammar School (SWGS) has been accorded specialist school status - and the announcement of its success came almost simultaneously with that of the resignation of headmistress Marian Freeman.

The department for education and skills announced the success of the SWGS bid to become a specialist school in mathematics and computing, last week.

Chairman of governors John Holland said: "The pleasure felt by governors at this success is inevitably tinged with sadness at the news that Mrs Freeman will be retiring."

Mrs Freeman will be retiring at the end of the current academic year, after 11 years at the school.

Mr Holland said: "South Wilts has gone from strength to strength during Mrs Freeman's headship.

"She will be leaving the school on a high of achievement and magnificently placed to respond to the challenges lying ahead."