STUDENTS who are strapped for cash will soon be able to take advantage of a new Smartcard system to buy food and drinks at Blackburn College.

The new system, which will be valid in any college restaurant as well as some vending machines, will be in place by September.

The card contains a microchip and is credited before it is used. Cash registers on campus will be able to check the balance at any time and if lost can be transferred to a new card straight away.

The college, based in Feilden Street, is planning to run special promotions for holders of Smartcards.

College principal Sheena Ewing is pictured with catering boss Lesley Ashton.

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