TUESDAY this week saw a turning point for the former Forest of Dean College when it formally merged with Gloucestershire College to become part of the biggest FE college in the country.

From now on it joins campuses in Gloucester and Cheltenham to become Gloucestershire College, Royal Forest of Dean Campus.

The changeover was marked with ceremonies to unveil new signs at Five Acres and student and staff events.

Greg Smith is to be overall principal of the combined campuses, with Lynne Craig, vice principal for curriculum and quality, becoming the site principal at the Forest campus.

She said on Tuesday: "Today is the start of a new journey for further education provision in the Forest. Our vision is to expand the current good A-level provision and to build upon the existing vocational training available in the Forest – supporting both the needs of our students and those of the local economy.

"An initial priority for us will be investment into advanced teaching and learning technologies, including a faster broadband connection to the campus new IT equipment."

Greg Smith said: "We are delighted to have completed the merger process and to welcome the Royal Forest of Dean Campus to Gloucestershire College.

He added: "We hope to play a key role in the regeneration of the Forest of Dean, supporting the area's needs, driving th local economy, providing work-based training for local business and providing a clear progression route for local school leavers."

There is to be an open evening at the campus on Tuesday January 15 to which potential students and residents are welcome.