TODAY'S news that the Government is now paying close attention to demands for a dedicated university in East Lancashire is welcome.

For decades, East Lancashire's brightest students have been forced to go outside the area in the pursuit of higher education courses.

So far, East Lancashire's further education colleges have done a very good job providing some courses which enable people to stay in the area.

Currently, around 3,000 people are studying higher education courses in the area after colleges set up arrangements with universities.

But the prestige and status of a dedicated university for East Lancashire would be a massive boost on many levels.

Parts of Cumbria previously untouched by higher education money have enjoyed massive benefits after the University of Central Lancashire, based in Preston, opened up new campuses.

Whether the review suggests East Lancashire's university be attached to an existing university elsewhere in the North West remains to be seen.

But at a time when so much is being promised to improve the area, it is vital we keep hold of our brightest sparks so that they can reach their academic potential without having to move away.