SCHOOLBOY David Cross said it is much better being headteacher than a pupil because you don't have to do so much work.

That was his verdict after he joined Minety School headteacher Bernard Crooks in the hot seat on Friday, after his parents bid for the honour in a fundraising auction of promises.

"It's been better than being a pupil," said nine-year-old David at the end of the day.

"I don't have to do as much work, I get biscuits and tea and get to tell people off. I think it's much better."

David's day began bright and early at 8.15am, joining Mr Crooks at the school and opening the day's post. He went on to check the registers and write a letter to the teachers telling them what was coming up in the term, including a disco.

At 10.40am it was off with the year five pupils to Crudwell School for an art exhibition.

"They were all nagging me about things but they were just jealous because I didn't have to do as much work as them," said David.

His day also included helping with a fire drill and singing a rap song in assembly about the five times table.

David described his day as excellent. "I'm not sure if I'd like to be a teacher or not but on Monday it will be back to normal," he added.