THE HEAD of Sport at a Hereford college is retiring after 30 years in the role.

Hereford Sixth Form College said Andy Douthwaite will retire after another set of impressive results for the department.

Many students have gained the top triple distinction* qualification in the BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science course under his guidance.

The sixth form is the largest centre in the area for the qualification, which is equivalent to three A Levels. One student from Abergavenny said it’s a good route to university.

Ben Cranna hopes to go on to study a degree in Physiotherapy at the University of the West of England, while Ellie Powell, formerly of Kingstone High School, said teachers like Mr Douthwaite are always around to help.

Principal, Peter Cooper, said: “The students’ magnificent achievements are a fitting tribute to mark Andy’s time as Head of Sport at the College.

“Sport has been a vital part of our mission and Andy has always ensured that we place a strong emphasis on the College’s academic achievements but equally on the wider role that sport and exercise play in our lives.

“Increasingly what happens outside the classroom and student’s participation in wider society is key to improving our own community and their university and employment opportunities.”

Andy has worked at the College for 33 years and in that time, amongst his many achievements, has set up a hugely successful Rugby Academy and developed a unique Elite Athlete Support Programme.

Andy will continue with the college as Sports Academies Co-ordinator when he returns in the new academic year.