"Worcestershire To Lose National Treasure" Warns Richard Burt

11.41.47pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 8th Jan 2007

Pershore College, a nationally renowned college for excellence in horticulture, is about to be taken over by Warwickshire College, based in Leamington.

Proposals are on the table to merge Pershore College with four colleges in Warwickshire. All the assets will be controlled by the new institution in Warwickshire if the proposals are successful, and Pershore College will be branded Warwickshire College, Pershore Campus.

Commenting on the proposals, Richard Burt said: "Horticulture is a major economic activity in Worcestershire and Pershore College has met the training needs of the industry for over 50 years.

"Horticulture in Worcestershire generates some £40m per year, which is nearly 30% of agricultural activity in the County.

"The proposals allow for only a very small representation from Worcestershire on the governing body of the new group. This could have a major impact on employers in Worcestershire to influence the future direction and training provision.

"The College and its students have won many national awards, notably at Chelsea Flower Show, the Three Counties Show and others. It is currently celebrating its short listing for the prestigious 'Green Gown Awards' for its contribution to environmental performance in all its activities.

"If you feel strongly about this proposal, please make your views known. Contact Amanda Berry at the Learning and Skills Council, Worcestershire, Progress House, Midland Road, Worcester, WR5 1DU; email: amanda.berry@lsc.gov.uk or telephone 01905 361427 to obtain a copy of the consultation document and response form, 'Proposal for the Dissolution of Pershore Group of Colleges and the Mergers of its Pershore Campus with Warwickshire College, Royal Leamington Spa, Rugby and Moreton Morrell."

"It would be a tragedy to lose control over the future of Pershore College, which is a national treasure. Who knows what the priorities of a controlling Warwickshire group of colleges may decide in the future."