WEST Somerset College's Farm Unit has been saved from closing - for six months at least.

Bridgwater College Trust agreed to take over the school in February but were met with the college in dire financial trouble, and it looked as though a number of vocational courses were set to be axed.

But there was particular outcry from students, staff, parents and the general public with the College's Farm Unit, which helps youngsters earn specialist agricultural qualifications on the chopping block.

However this week it has been announced that Exmoor National Park has agreed to step in with an emergency grant to keep the Farm Unit open until February, while discussions take place looking into whether a permanent arrangement can be sorted.

The College and Exmoor National Park say they have already started discussions with a group of key businesses and local organisations with an interest in the farm.

Dr Nigel Stone, chief executive of Exmoor National Park said that once news broke about the possible closure of the Farm Unit, a number of concerned parties got in touch seeking support.

"We approached the College and asked if they would be happy for us to look at ideas to help support the continuation of the farm.

"The College has been very open minded and we invited a number of businesses and local organisations, West Somerset and Somerset County Councils and potential funders to an initial meeting.

"The response was very positive and the group has subsequently met on a number of occasions together with staff at the farm unit to look at options for a future self-sufficient operation of the unit.

"There looks to be a good prospect of developing a viable plan and we are pleased to be able to offer the College some funding to keep the facility operational while the future plans are put in place.”

Peter Elliott, CEO of the Bridgwater College Trust said: “Over the past 12 months we have had a lot of work to do to put the College back on the right path.

"We have since achieved a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted and have made vast improvements to the school’s financial position.

"Some difficult decisions have been necessary and this includes doubts regarding the immediate prospects of the College Farm.

"However, we are pleased the National Park Authority and other local organisations are looking to support the education facility and look forward to seeing what the future holds.”

The news was warmly received by members of a Facebook group called 'Save Our College Farm'. Set up by former student Tasha Lothian, the group managed to gain more than 1,800 members supporting the cause.