Adults are returning to education in a bid to get ahead in business, a report has revealed.

The figures, commissioned by heads at Sussex Downs College, were based on adults studying at the Denton Island Training and Business Centre, Denton Island, Newhaven.

They revealed 1,126 Newhaven residents had gained business-related qualifications since the Newhaven Training Programme was set up six years ago.

The Newhaven Economic Partnership (NEP) pledged more than £500,000 to set up the programme and establish the business centre.

NEP programme manager Sarah Ireland said: "The success of the training programme goes to show the NEP has responded to meet both the personal training needs of the local residents and Newhaven employees.

"So the momentum is maintained and the financial and social investment not lost, it will be essential further free training is available."

The report concluded progress made in forging links between employment and individual learning had been notable.

Gill Short, project manager Sussex Downs College, said:

"The success is due Newhaven residents, employers and local voluntary organisations who have worked together to make the most the training on offer."

For more information, call the centre on 01273 511410.