A head teacher has been backed by his school after an investigation into his relationship with his former foster daughter.

Malcolm Hayes, 38, was investigated by Sussex Police over a possible breach of trust as a foster parent of 16-year-old Rhoxan Kenward.

But no evidence was found to support the allegation and he returned to his school two weeks ago from extended sick leave during the summer.

Parents and children at the small village primary school in Horsmonden, Kent, voted Mr Hayes Teacher of the Year 2000 in a weekly newspaper poll.

On receiving his award in May last year, he also announced that he and his wife, Paula, then living in Eastbourne, had just been approved as foster parents by Barnardo's Apex Project in Southborough, Kent.

But in June this year Rhoxan's elder sister Zoey Kenward complained to the charity about the troubled teenager's relationship with Mr Hayes, who has reportedly split up with his wife.

At her home in Hastings, Zoey Kenward said: "I was the one who complained to Apex because I was against my sister going with Malcolm Hayes.

"But it has been blown out of all proportion. I've got young children and I now want to leave it alone."

Sussex Police said there was no question of sexual offences being committed and because Rhoxan ceased to be a foster child of the Hayes's in May, allegations of breach of trust did not apply.

At the primary school, which has 220 pupils, parents spoke out in support for Mr Hayes.

Gillian Hayward, 40, from Horsmonden, who has a five-year-old daughter, said: "His private life is his private life and who are we to judge?

"There have only ever been good reports about Mr Hayes. I think it is a very sad situation but the parents I know seem to be standing by him."

A source at the school said Mr Hayes was a charismatic head and popular with parents, who were "making their own minds up" about his personal life.

A Kent County Council spokeswoman said no official complaints had been made at the school or to the authority by parents.

A statement from Carol Parsons, the education authority's acting assistant director for schools and early years, said: "Allegations were made against Mr Hayes outside Kent earlier this year which have no connection whatsoever with his work. The allegations were not proved in any way.

"The governing body, following procedures, carried out a thorough internal investigation with assistance and support from the LEA to determine whether there was any reason why he should not continue in his post. They concluded that there was no reason.

"The governing body trust in his ability as a head and remain confident in his leadership and management of the school and his commitment to ensure his pupils achieve a high standard of education."