A FORMER Bury College executive has been appointed the first director of the Association of Colleges (AoC) North West.

Tony Watmough will be at the helm of the association which represents more than 60 further education, tertiary, sixth form and specialist colleges throughout the region.

He brings extensive experience of the learning and skills sector, having previously held posts at Bury College, Bolton Bury training and Enterprise Council and the University of Leeds. More recently, his primary role has been as European co-ordinator for North West colleges.

Commenting on his new role, Mr Watmough said: "The college sector, represented by AoC North West, is by far the largest provider of post-16 education and training in the region, serving more than 680,000 students. It will play a key role in the work of the new Learning and Skills Council and its five local arms." He added: "Colleges are playing a full part in liberating the talent of our region, enabling both young people and adults to achieve their potential.

"I look forward to working with a wide range of partners in developing the skills and abilities necessary for the North West to achieve long term competitive success and become a leading region in Europe."

Tony Nightingale, chairman of AoC North West, said: "The appointment of a regional director signals our determination to ensure that the value of the colleges we represent should be better recognised."

"Public concern for schools and universities can overshadow the very real work done by colleges in equipping people for higher education or providing a chance in life and in the community for those who require more basic knowledge or practical skills."

He went on: 'I am confident that Tony will be able to make an important contribution to ensuring that colleges are able to carry out their mission effectively."