THE Winsford campus of Warrington and Vale Royal College is ‘bustling’ with students following an influx this academic year.

The college has provided a timely boost for the town, with a large number of courses and training moving to Winsford following the partial-closure of the Hartford campus.

With the help of a complimentary Arriva bus pass, many new and existing students are now travelling into Winsford – and a third campus in Warrington – to study and learn new skills.

A college spokesman said: “We are very pleased with the successful transition of students from the Hartford campus to our Winsford and Warrington campuses.

“Whilst we still have a small number of new and existing students at Hartford campus, the majority of students have transitioned to Winsford campus to begin or continue studies in art and design, business, childcare, electrical engineering, foundation learning, graphic design, health and social care, IT and gaming, media, mechanical engineering, public services, and travel and tourism.

“Student numbers at Winsford have certainly met our expectations and it is pleasing to see the campus bustling with students.

“With accessible transport, excellent facilities and first-rate teaching and pastoral support available at all campuses, we are optimistic that student numbers at Winsford campus will continue to grow each year, with an increasing number of students choosing to stay local and travel the short distance from the Northwich and Vale Royal area.”

Cllr Brian Clarke, who sits on Winsford Town Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council, has welcomed the promise of improvements at the Winsford campus, as well as the college’s intentions to work with more businesses.

Following the Hartford closure, the college – which posted a budget deficit of £2 million in 2017 – is on course to balance the books and be in ‘outstanding financial health’ by 2021-22.