Shropshire college reveals plan for a new hospitality and catering academy

Some of Shropshire's top restaurateurs have already expressed their support for the scheme being set up by Walford and North Shropshire College.

Governors approved the £100,000 investment at the Oswestry campus to provide the first phase of a suite of hospitality and catering facilities.

These will include a specialist teaching kitchen, with the second phase to include a training restaurant which will be open to the public.

Deputy principal Paul May said it was an important initiative responding to the local employment priorities. "We have seen a steady increase in interest in our hospitality and catering provision in recent years, with demand far outstripping the capacity of our current facilities," he said.

"From September we will be able to offer some fantastic full-time courses in hospitality and catering which will provide the stepping stone for students aiming for a professional career in the industry."

The college has appointed Eric Neville's of Welshpool, one of the country's leading suppliers of catering equipment in the country.

Head of faculty at the college, Andy Holland, said: "We have already had more than 20 applications for September, which is a fantastic start to recruitment. We have also had expressions of support from several renowned Shropshire restaurateurs including Marcus Bean at the New Inn, Baschurch, and Will Holland from La Becasse in Ludlow.

"I think it is really important that we continue to develop and expand our range of courses at the college."

Courses will cater for all ability levels. One day a week apprenticeships will also be available.

The Skills Funding Agency has contributed to the costs of some specialist items of equipment and Shropshire Council has contributed £13,000 towards the project.