COUNCILLOR Brian Rigby has retired as chairman of the Dean Trust.

On Friday, after a 28 year connection with Ashton-on-Mersey School, a retirement reception was held at Sale Golf Club attended by head teachers, staff and governors from Manchester, Liverpool and Wigan.

Graham Brady MP and his wife Victoria thanked him for his outstanding contribution to education in Trafford.

When Brian was chairman of the governors at Ashton-on-Mersey School, they received many outstanding Ofsted reports.

In 2005, Brian’s initiative made it possible for a successful federation between Ashton-on-Mersey School and Broadoak School, Partington, which has seen record results achieved by pupils.

The federation was so successful that Tthe Department for Education encouraged Ashton-on-Mersey School to take on other schools to help encourage rising standards and to form a multi academy trust - the Dean Trust

There are now nine schools in the trust with a new school joining next year.

Tarun Kapur. chief executive of the Dean Trust, said: “This is a momentous occasion as Brian has been responsible for leading all of the key initiatives that have brought our trust and schools to the position we have today, as a well respected organisation both locally and nationally.

"The Dean Trust was named after Brian because of his devotion to the schools (Brian Dean Rigby)”

In 2006 Brian, 77, was awarded an MBE for services to education.

Brian, who is a national leader in governance, has shared his expertise with governing bodies, experiencing difficulties throughout the North West.

Brian said: “It has been a long but satisfying journey.

"I have tried to ensure our young people, whatever their personal ability, receive every opportunity to succeed in their education. I have many happy memories.”

Tarun Kapur said: “Everyone in the Dean Trust and beyond wish him happiness in his well deserved retirement.”