PRINCIPAL Janak Patel is leaving the Royal Forest of Dean College for a new job.

The RFDC chief will be taking over as Principal of Sussex Coast College, Hastings after two years in charge at the Five Acres campus.

Mr Patel's announcement comes after negotiating a merger deal which will see RFDC become part of Gloucestershire College under their principal Greg Smith.

Announcing his move, he said it had been a privilege to work with such wonderful and talented learners and a fantastic group of staff.

"I have always known that there is only one place in the Principal's chair and I know Greg Smith will continue to offer a wide range of education and training in the Forest," he said.

Under Janak's leadership RFDC was rated "good with outstanding features" by Ofsted.

He told staff: "No other group of staff could have achieved what we have achieved. We should be proud of our successes."

Forest MP Mark Harper said: "Janak Patel should be proud that he leaves the College well positioned for the future, with a really positive legacy for both students and for the Forest."