A COLLEGE has celebrated seven decades of serving the community.

To celebrate 70 years of education, former Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) students and principals, employers, dignitaries and charity representatives joined the current crop of staff and governors for a meal in the college’s restaurant prepared by hospitality students.

Guests were treated to a four-course dinner, which due to the quality of food on offer, the young chefs received considerable praise from guests.

It was not just the hospitality department in the spotlight with the BCoT’s art students also showcasing their talents creating table decorations and a 70th anniversary display.

Anthony Bravo, BCOT principal, said: “The college has come a long way in the last 70 years during which time we have proudly offered our learners the skills they need to succeed in the future.

“We are now ranked as one of the top colleges in the UK with a record for impressive results and a reputation as one of the very best colleges in the country for apprenticeships.

“Our premises are steeped in history, but we also have our eye very much on the future with our latest flagship facility, the multi-million-pound, Future Skills Centre which recently opened in Bordon.

“I’m excited to see what the next 70 years hold”.

Guests at the celebratory meal included Basingstoke’s MP Maria Miller and leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Councillor Clive Sanders.

Cllr Sanders added: “We are lucky to have had such a forward-thinking organisation serving our area for 70 years.

“BCoT opens up a broad range of opportunities for our residents, giving young people the right start on their future careers and supporting lifelong learning.”

Mrs Miller said the college should be proud of its contributions to the community over the past seven decades and that it has been key in helping shape future generations in the town.

The MP said; “BCoT has made an enormous contribution to Basingstoke over the last 70 years and has supported thousands of young people to get the educational qualifications they need for their futures “It was a great privilege to be asked to the event and to speak about the work of the college.”

The college’s restaurant is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday lunch time and Wednesday and Thursday evening.

With students keen to impress the seasonal menu promises flavoursome food and skilled preparation. To book a table go to therestaurantatbcot.org.uk or call 01256 306306.