OKEHAMPTON College's state-of-the-art skills centre recently received a visit from Central Devon MP Mel Stride following a major investment in the facilities.

The college is offering students a range of courses and qualifications at its new £500,000 centre to help kick-start their careers.

With an emphasis on vocational skills, such as construction, carpentry and bricklaying, the centre offers BTEC and diploma courses. The centre houses a large central workshop, an information technology centre, classrooms, and other facilities.

Mr Stride was shown around the new centre by college principal Daryll Chapman and chairman of governors Ian Courtney. The tour gave him the chance to see the successes of the centre at helping students focus on a career.

Mr Stride said: 'I have been a governor at Okehampton College for several years and I know just how hard the principal and his entire team work to provide the best possible support for students.

'One of the main reasons for the college's success is that it has great leadership backed up by a totally supportive governing body.

'The new centre puts a firm emphasis on the importance of vocational skills and not only provides students with qualifications that will help them into rewarding careers, but will help to contribute significantly to the local economy going forward.'

Principal Daryll Chapman said: 'We were very happy to show Mel around and receive his support.

'We hope that the skills centre achieves great results for our students and helps them shape their careers in the future.

'We realise we are lucky to have such an excellent asset and the opportunities it gives to our pupils.'