MORE than 100 jobs are at risk after it was announced a major Cumbrian agricultural college was earmarked for closure.

An independent review of Newton Rigg, near Penrith, found it was not 'financially viable'.

"We understand the strength of feeling about Newton Rigg and the fact this will be upsetting news to our staff, students and the local community,” said Tim Whitaker, chief executive officer and principal of Askam Bryan College, which runs Newton Rigg. "We will do all we can to support our staff and students at this difficult time.”

A spokesman for Askam Bryan said a review by the Further Education Commissioner revealed Newton Rigg had an 'operating deficit' of around £1m and needed around £20m investment to 'keep pace' with the 'needs' of the land-based sector.

The spokesman said the review also revealed the college was dealing with low demographic growth of 16 to 18-year-olds and 'insufficient local demand for specialist land-based provision.'

Iain Owens, regional official at the University and College Union, said a closure would be a 'hammer blow' to the region while Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, has written to environment secretary George Eustice asking the state to intervene to save the college.

Mr Farron, who described the proposed closure as 'devastating news', said: “It would be totally unacceptable for Newton Rigg college to close with a loss of 117 jobs and a loss of opportunity for generations to come.

“We should be investing hugely in producing, training and encouraging the coming generation of those who will care for our land and produce our food."

The proposed closure of Newton Rigg College in July of next year is subject to the outcome of a 45-day consultation process with staff and the trade unions, which began last Thursday.