A college in special measures faces fresh turmoil after its new head suddenly resigned.

Martin Clark quit as principal of troubled Seaford Head Community College on Friday.

He was appointed in January to help guide the failing college out of special measures.

Stunned parents were sent letters telling them Mr Clark had resigned for personal reasons after only four months.

Mr Clark had been away from the college on leave and is not expected to return to work.

The news came as a shock to parents who believed he was doing a good job in starting to turn around the school, which has about 1,400 pupils aged 11 to 18.

Mr Clark already had a good track record as headteacher at Halyard High School, Luton, successfully getting it out of special measures imposed by Ofsted two years ago.

Seaford Head was placed in special measures in January last year after inspectors criticised leadership and management there.

Areas of the college's curriculum were also highlighted for improvement as was its relationship with parents and the effects of a small number of troublemaking students.

Former principal Robin Precely left suddenly after the Ofsted report, telling staff it was time for a career change.

An East Sussex County Council spokesman said: "I can confirm that Mr Clark has resigned and we are actively seeking an interim principal as soon as possible."

Roger Case, chairman of governors at the community college, said in a letter to parents: "I regret to have to tell you Martin Clark has resigned for reasons that are personal to him.

"He is currently away from the college on leave and it is not anticipated he will return to work. I am sure you will understand that I cannot comment further."

Mr Case said that, despite the setback, the college had already made significant improvements which were confirmed by its last inspection. He said its progress was expected to be sustained during its next inspection this term.

Mr Case added: "The Local Education Authority has expressed its full confidence in the governing body and has clear expectations the college will sustain these improvements.

"The governors are currently working closely with the LEA to identify an interim principal to take over the leadership of the college on June 6, following the mid-term break."

One concerned mother, who contacted The Argus and did not want to be named, said: "Martin Clark was brought in to turn the college around.

"The fact that he has gone after only three months is of great concern to us.

"If the personal reasons are because of ill health that is something which we would all deeply regret.

"But if it is a question of him facing opposition to his plans from the governors and senior staff at the college, then that is not good and it is going to affect the students."