THE principal and chief executive of Sussex Downs College is to retire in spring 2018.

The announcement that Mike Hopkins is leaving comes at a time when the college is merging with Sussex Coast College in Hastings.

He said: “On my arrival in 2015, I made a commitment to staff, students and the wider community that I would fulfil a three-year tenure.

“I believe much has been accomplished during my time at Sussex Downs College and while a potential merger between two large colleges will always present challenges, our college is in a good place to meet and overcome them.

“Until my retirement next year, I will be working tirelessly with colleagues in Lewes, Eastbourne, Newhaven and Hastings.”