The go-ahead to proceed with merger talks has been given by the governors of South Kent College.

Members voted unanimously to move on with a merger with another further education college.

Chairman of the governors and Kent County Councillor, Bryan Cope, said the decision was made "to explore the options available for a single entity merger."

The two recommended colleges for merger partners are Sussex Downs College based in Lewes and Eastbourne and West Kent College, based in Tonbridge.

"The board retains the fall-back position that if neither of the two colleges is found to satisfy the needs of the stakeholders of South Kent College then other partners will be considered," said Cllr Cope.

Staff at South Kent College, which has campuses in Folkestone, Ashford and Dover, are being kept informed.