A COLLEGE which works with more than 900 of the county's firms has received national recognition for its service and response to business needs.

Mid Kent College was praised by the Learning Skills Council and South East England Development Agency for its flexible and thorough approach to local employers' training requirements.

The two organisations have awarded the college, which has centres in Maidstone, Rochester and Chatham, Action for Business College status (ABC).

The college will get extra funding to enhance its business relationships and expand provision.

Jane Jones, Mid Kent College principal, said: "We are delighted to gain ABC accreditation.

"We work hard with employers to provide training and development opportunities which are relevant to local needs, delivering skilled employees for the growing Thames Gateway region.

"ABC status allows us to enhance our service to business and help other colleges in the region respond to the needs of employers."

The college works with businesses including GlaxoSmithKline, HM Customs and Excise, Kent County Council and Southern Water, as well as hundreds of small firms.

The award was marked by a visit by Mark Haysom, chief executive of the Learning and Skills Council.