New Further Education Minister will be celebrating Colleges Week this Friday at Askham Bryan College. He will be accompanied by Prospective Labour MP for York Outer, Councillor James Alexander.

The celebration day at Askham Bryan College will include activities such as engine emissions testing, an off road driving experience, robotic milking, tacking and turning out a horse and animal handling skills.

Siôn Simon said: "Today is a brilliant example of how the community, students and teachers can come together and celebrate the achievements of our students. Askham Bryan College is developing the next generation of employers and employees for the land-based industries and I am very proud of the work that James and I have seen."

Councillor James Alexander added, "I have been to Askham Bryan College on a number of occasions but not for a few years. I am amazed at the improvements that are happening here and the diversity of courses offered. The Government is investing large amounts of money in Further Education and in land-based education. The staff and students really are working very hard and the people of York Outer are very much benefiting from the work of this College."

Askham Bryan College Principal, Liz Philip, said: "I am very pleased to welcome James and Siôn and to show them the breadth of opportunities we offer for land-based education in Yorkshire and the Tees Valley."

Liz Philip will be showing James and Siôn the College's robotic milking facilities on their tour of the College.