THE COMMUNITY has banded together to ensure education continues at Newton Rigg.

A company has been formed under the name Newton Rigg Limited by concerned members of the public and they hope to make a bid for the site.

The final decision to close the Newton Rigg college in its current form was made in July but members of the community are determined to ensure education still takes place at the campus in Penrith.

Newton Rigg Limited has submitted an expression of interest to the Further Education Commissioner as the Government is considering options for the future owners.

The company will send a detailed outline of their plans for education at the Newton Rigg campus.

Chairman of Newton Rigg Limited, Professor Andrew Cobb said: “Our bid to save Newton Rigg is solely focused on the continuation, and development, of specialist land-based education at an enhanced campus, for the benefit of young people and adults, farming communities and relevant industries in Cumbria and elsewhere.

“Alongside many others speaking out in support, we believe that Newton Rigg has a vital and sustainable future.

He said: “Our purpose is to facilitate this by working with local investors and partners who share our vision; putting the student first, maintaining excellence in academic achievement, improving the campus, investing in new opportunities and building strong partnerships in land-based industry just like those upon which this unique educational establishment was originally built.”

Directors, advisors and sponsors are experts in farming and rural communities.

The directors of Newton Rigg Limited include Christopher Crewdson, former Managing Director of Gilbert, Gilkes & Gordon Ltd, former member of the Board at University of Central Lancashire, Andrew Bromley, country solicitor and former partner at Hayton Winkley Bromley Wood practising in Windermere and Michael Hunt, Managing Director and Responsible Officer at ETC Awards Ltd.

Newton Rigg Limited hope to modernise the campus while continuing to use Sewborwens Farm and Low Beckside Farm in the educational provision.

Letters of support for the plans have been received by industry leaders and members of the farming community.

Unless an appropriate successor can be found, the Newton Rigg campus will close in July 2021 at the expense of 177 jobs.

The decision was first mooted by owner Bryan Askham College in May.

A preferred owner will be chosen from the growing list of bidders by December 18 2020.

The college has been operating since 1896 as a leading education provider.