LIKE two thirds of their age group in England, 11,500 16 to 18-year-olds study at their local college in Cheshire and Warrington.

Despite the wonderful service they receive, the Government funds these young people at least 10 per cent less than schools.

That means an average shortfall of more than £350 per student per year.

Young college students in Cheshire and Warrington are therefore missing out on £4million per year.

In addition, the Government's current funding plans for adult learning across England mean that colleges may be required to impose fee rises of 40 per cent over the next three years or introduce course cuts across a range of provision, where such courses do not match Government priorities.

Older adults will be particularly affected, as will all those adults taking a course not counting towards a Government target.

In the run up to the General Election, the Association of Colleges would like, through your newspaper, to ask each of your candidates to make their views clear on closing the 16-18 funding gap and protecting adult learning in your area.

I am sure your readership would be interested to have their views clarified. Young people and parents can express their views and sign our petition at aoc.co.uk

DR JOHN BRENNAN

Chief executive, Association of Colleges