Mr Riddell will be leaving his post at the end of the month. His decision is believed to be as a result of the stress of the job.

News of his departure has come as a surprise to parents campaigning against the council's proposed education shake-up.

Lawrence Weston and Lockleaze schools were both earmarked for closure after a thorough review of the city's secondary education provision.

Schools oversubscribed

Parents were assured they would be able to choose alternatives for their children but head teachers said their schools were already oversubscribed.

Debbie Ashley, who had been fighting Mr Riddell over plans to close Lawrence Weston School said the education service needed strong leadership.

"I do feel we need somebody strong now to come in and change it all around," she said.

"I don't think the blame is solely on his shoulders - obviously the council have a big say in it as well.

"It would be nice now to change it all around and say there have been mistakes made. We want somebody strong please, that will stand up to the council.

"We know the money's there and hopefully it will be spent wisely."