THE new headmistress of Horton-in-Ribblesdale primary school says she is more than ready for the challenges that lie ahead.

Although this is her first head-ship, Judy Leeming is no stranger to the area having worked for the past 12 years in schools at Austwick, Kildwick and Hawes.

Originally from Kent, Mrs Leeming has also worked in urban schools, but says she prefers rural areas.

"The school is a community involvement. Everybody is so caring and happy and I am looking forward to being here," she said.

Although Mrs Leeming has some new ideas for the 40-pupil school, she has no immediate plans for any drastic changes.

However, she is hopeful the school could have a nursery by January for 13 children. Horton-in-Ribblesdale School has been identified by North Yorkshire County Council as having space for a nursery. Currently the nearest one is at Settle.

Mrs Leeming added that she hoped to keep a presence in the classroom, teaching two days a week.

Her husband, Chris, is deputy headmaster at Ingleton School and the couple have two sons, Simon, 19, and Mark 14.