LEEDS United chairman Peter Ridsdale is to tackle standards in Wharfedale and Aireborough schools.

Mr Ridsdale has been chosen to head the new joint venture company (JVC) to be set up next year to take responsibility for the delivery of

support services to schools.

The setting up of the JVC comes after a damning report earlier this year from government watchdog OfSTED into the running of the

city's support services to schools.

It will be led by a board of five directors including as well as Mr Ridsdale, two representatives from Leeds City Council and two from a partner organisation which has yet to be named.

As chairman, Mr Ridsdale will play an important role in leading and shaping the support given to schools and creating a constructive relationship between the council and its partner organisation.

The football boss, who was selected by education secretary David Blunkett, is executive chairman of Leeds Sporting PLC and is a member of the Football Association board.

He is an active member of the Education Advisory Board in Leeds and has been influential in promoting links between Leeds United and local schools.

David Blunkett, education and employment secretary, said he was pleased with the appointment.

"This is very good news for the schools, parents and pupils of Leeds.

"Leeds is a great city and deserves an education service to match. This appointment underlines our

commitment to improving standards in Leeds schools with the support of the new joint venture company and the cooperation of Leeds City Council."

Councillor Brian Walker, council leader, said he was delighted with the appointment. "The city is fortunate to have a man of Peter's standing and leadership skills to take on this very important role.

"The joint ventre was proposed to ensure that support services to schools are improved. Because of his long and successful business career in charge of large service

organisations Peter is extremely well qualified to provide the leadership and management skills needed to bring about changes and improvements."