THE University of Central Lancashire could soon be branching out - offering courses in forestry and agriculture in Cumbria.

UCLa bosses are in talks with Newton Rigg College in Penrith discussing a merger between the two.

The specialist Cumbrian college serves agriculture industries and the rural economy. Like many others in the region, it is already an associate college with the Preston-based university, linking up in 1989.

Principal of Newton Rigg, Ken Jackson, said: "We've enjoyed extraordinary success in recent years in building up Newton Rigg College. The University has been central to this success.

"It's important that this momentum is maintained and we are confident that the merger will help expand further and higher education courses for the people and industries here."

The merger is subject to extensive research and consultation before it goes before the governing bodies of both institutions sometime next year.

University vice-chancellor Brian Booth said: "Newton Rigg College is very important for Cumbria. We have been pleased to work in partnership with the college to expand higher education opportunities in Cumbria."

So far there are no plans to change the name of either institution and jobs, say bosses, are not at risk.

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