A NEW principal has been appointed at an agricultural college following a sharp rise in student numbers and the construction of several new centres.

Askham Bryan College, which offers degree courses, diplomas and apprenticeships, has appointed Dr Tim Whitaker to take the reins at the Yorkshire sites.

Along with the flagship centre in York, other regional centres include Harrogate, Thirsk and Guisborough.

Dr Whitaker, who boasts more than 20 years’ experience in land-based education, was previously Head of Higher Education at Duchy College, Cornwall.

“I see the college as the link between rural and urban communities and providing a good student experience is a key part of that,” said Dr Whitaker, who is married with three children.

The college is one of the fastest-growing in the UK and currently tutors around 4,500 students, with an annual turnover of £30.

Executive principal and chief executive Liz Philip said: “Our long term vision is to not only provide the best education possible, but also to have first class facilities for our students which match that.”