A NEW principal will take on the reins of a Northwich college from September.

Mid Cheshire College’s current principal John Reilly, who has led the college since September 2002, will be replaced by Richard Hollywood, current vice principal.

Mr Hollywood has been appointed by governors following an intensive two-day selection process.

He has worked at Mid Cheshire College for seven years, initially as an assistant principal before being promoted to vice principal in 2010.

He lives in Plumley with his wife Jo and their three children.

“I feel very honoured to have been chosen to lead this college into an exciting new era,” he said.

“We have enjoyed much success over the past few years and stand proud in being the only ‘outstanding’ general further education college in Cheshire and Warrington.

“As principal for the past 11 years, John has been instrumental in turning around the fortunes of the college and I’m looking forward to elevating the college to even higher levels of success.

“With the reduction in public spending, the next few years will be challenging, but I can only foresee great things ahead.

“The governors and staff have worked exceedingly hard to make the college what it is today and I want to reward their efforts by establishing the college as a sector-leading organisation.”

Mr Reilly has decided to retire after helping the college achieve Beacon College status in 2009 and being appointed CBE for services to further education in the last New Year’s Honours list.