An extension was unveiled today for The Sixth Form Bolton at a lavish ceremony attended by dignitaries and guests.

Cllr Linda Thomas cut the purple ribbon, accompanied by Cllr Martyn Cox and Chris Green, MP for Bolton West and Atherton, officially opening the multi-million pound extension to coincide with the College's open day.

The extension was built over the course of the last two years to accommodate growing numbers of students, following an increase in demand for places.

The board of governors was keen to welcome new students into the college, and offer as many educational opportunities as possible, following the Covid-19 pandemic which presented several challenges for the college, its students and the construction of the extension.

Cllr Linda Thomas said: "I'm thrilled to be here on such a lovely day, speaking with these pupils has been fantastic and I'm sure this extension will be a wonderful addition to the college."

Cllr Martyn Cox, leader of Bolton Council, said: "I think the success of this college is down to the atmosphere of stability that they have fostered here and I hope that the ethos that has worked so well carries on throughout the years.

"It's a bit surreal for me to be here but I'm just thrilled that this has been done, because it is exactly what the young people of Bolton need."

Mr Green said: "Well, I'm delighted to be here at the opening of the extension, and being able to talk to students.

"I'm so happy to hear that all the students seem so pleased with it and I like to see that they are back, learning and being with friends and enjoying a sense of normality again."

Principal Stuart Merrills added: "I'm exceedingly proud to be principal and this is about the opening of our new extension that we're so delighted to have the mayor and leader of the council here with us.

"This has been over two years in the making and it feels like a Greek Odyssey, in which the heroes overcome insurmountable challanges to achieve their goals and that's what we've done.

On the opening day, several student ambassadors were also present, and heaped praise onto the college for its unfailing support throughout the pandemic.

Daniel Morris-Broome, a first year student studying Media, film and accounting, said: "So far, my time here has been amazing, the staff are lovely and friendly especially after the year we've had they've helped us through the difficult change from high school to sixth form.

"Everyone is different here, and no matter who you are you can be yourself and have your own identity."

Kirsten Eccles, a first year studying criminology, psychology and law, added: "I also think the support from all the teacher has been great - I'd say that's my favourite part about the college because they are all so understanding and kind."

Second year students also had a lot to say about the careers team and how they have helped students navigate the tricky decision process about universities and jobs after graduation.

Mafina Assan Kojo, a second year student doing physics, maths and history said: "There's so much support and it's a really friendly atmosphere.

"Here, there's always someone to talk to, no matter what your problem is and it's a nice place to be.

"The first thing I did here was have a careers meeting and, honestly, they were immensely helpful."

Mafina's friend, Karen Stockton, a biology, chemistry and maths student later commented: "I think it's great that we've got an extension but this college has already provided me with ample opportunities like career appointments and are committed to helping me find the university that fits me."

Staff were enthusiastic about the extension, built to accommodate the increasing number of students who want to study at the college and reverse the trend of 40 per cent of school leavers choosing to leave the borough to study A-levels and other qualifications.