I ATTENDED an excellent visit to the newly built Chippenham College along with nearly 30 other visitors on Saturday, November 14, in which we were pleasantly escorted by vice principal Denise Lloyd and liaison officer Beth Morris.

As we explored the vast majority of the wonderful building, starting on the top third floor and working downward, Denise gave us a lot of information about all the aspects of the new college including its layout, activities and equipment. In addition, it became clear that some of the new arrangements, not equipment, that have been made were giving much benefit to the students, in many different ways. Students at the new college should do much better for many reasons than if they had attended the old college and not just because of the new building and new equipment.

I live in Esmead with my back garden backing onto the college sports field, which means that I have been able to watch the preparation and construction of the new college from its start. It has always been interesting to watch and has caused me no problems at all with anything including noise. I am also pleased that the sports field remains behind our home.

Many years ago, when I was younger, I spent time at two colleges, one in Bristol and one in Reading, and can confirm that whilst it was not possible for either of them to have such equipment as is available today, some of the methods used in Chippenham College today are very much better and, I believe, more enjoyable.

The visit lasted more than 90 minutes and really explained all that was of interest to us, partly due to information given in answer to questions that were asked by us. I would certainly recommend anyone to visit and explore the college even if, like me, they have no youngsters living close enough to benefit from its quality, as students.

LEONARD BELK, Esmead, Chippenham