Steven to quit as chairman

STEPPING down: Steven Lowe, chairman of Oldham Sixth-Form College governors

RETIRED banker Steven Lowe is stepping down as chairman of governors at Oldham Sixth-Form College.

Mr Lowe helped to set up the college in 1992 and was instrumental in the creation of its Regional Science Centre in 2011 and the push to bring higher education to the town.

The 61 year old wanted to get involved in the community after several top jobs across the country and abroad with NatWest. He had returned to work for the bank in Oldham and has been a governor at the college throughout its history.

Mr Lowe, from Royton, said: “I thought it would be a success — but not to the extent it has been.

“We have also managed to get the mix of students working well. I have been very proud to have been involved with the college since its inception.”

Mr Lowe was vice-chairman of governors before taking over as chairman from Gloria Oates following her death in 2010. He steps down on August 1 and will be replaced by former Oldham Council chief executive Andrew Kilburn, currently a parent governor.

Mr Lowe will continue to be a director of Groundwork, on the steering group for Oldham Business Awards, Oldham Sports Awards and Rochdale Business Awards.