THE cream of the crop helped Nelson and Colne College rise to the top as one of the most successful A level centres in the country.

Students who picked up exam successes in the summer were at Colne Municipal Hall last night to receive awards for their outstanding achievements.

Students from other departments were also rewarded for their efforts.

Shortly before the annual prize presentation event the college picked up an honour of its own.

Nelson and Colne was granted Associate College status with the University of Salford.

It means the college will forge closer links with the university and all the benefits the partnership will bring.

The University's pro-vice chancellor, Professor John Sanger, unveiled a commemorative plaque at the college's site at Reedyford before being guest speaker at the prize night.

College principal Kath Belton said: "This will allow the college to develop higher education provision with appropriate support from a Higher Education institution."

Brian Allen, head of access development at the university, has joined the college board.

Chairman of the board Brian Foster said: "1999 has been another successful year for the college, thanks once again to the hard work of our staff and students.

"We achieved our highest ever overall pass rate for A-levels this year of 95.9 per cent, which is seven per cent above the national average and puts us in the top ten per cent of colleges in the country for the second year running.

"This was our 25th year of serving the community and helping people of all ages to fulfil their potential."

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