A PRESTON college has launched a scholarship scheme in a bid to make the town a centre of culinary excellence.

Preston College hopes to entice the next generation of Paul Heathcotes to the college by creating scholarships for students on their catering and hospitality management course. From next year, 12 students are to receive £1,000 for two years, funded by the Preston Education and Training Trust.

College bosses hope to attract more catering students to the college, bucking the national trend of a decreasing number of students undertaking cooking courses each year. Alison Fazackerley, head of school of catering and hospitality management, said: "In the UK, fewer people are studying craft catering courses and hospitality management programmes than ever before. "In the age where the hospitality sector provides one in five of all new jobs it is imperative more bright young people follow craft and hospitality programmes. She added: "The diversity of careers available in the industry is as impressive as the industry itself."

The college is the only one in the area to offer specialised HND courses, including licensed retail management, and professional culinary arts.

It is well-known throughout the country for producing top-class chefs who have gone on top work at some of Europe's best hotels and restaurants.

The St Vincent's Road college already offers scholarships for a number of courses, including mathematics and science, as well as scholarships for sports students who have the potential to crack their sport at a professional level.

For more information on the course, ring (01772) 225522.

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