QUEEN Mary's College has been rated as one of the best in Hampshire by the Learning and Skills Council.

The Basingstoke college is among 10 in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that have been given an excellent rating - the highest number from any region in the whole country. It also entitles the college to pick up extra funding for the year 2004/5.

The ratings are part of the LSC's plans to drive up standards in education by giving colleges performance-related funding.

QMC principal Stephen Sheedy said that the rating was part of the wider recognition the college was getting for raising standards.

He said: "This announcement is very pleasing. It follows a great report from Ofsted and the Adult Learn-ing Inspectorate, our A Place to be Proud of award and an excellence in teaching award - a Plato - for one of our teachers.

"It reflects the real improvement the college has made in teaching and learning, meeting the needs of each student and improving accommodation and equipment.

"Everyone at the college has worked hard and I am delighted they have received this recognition."

Hilary Chadwick, executive director of the LSC in the region, singled out QMC and two other local colleges for their excellent work.

She said: "I'd like to congratulate Alton, Peter Symonds and Queen Mary's colleges. They are great examples of the standards we are striving to achieve from all colleges and providers in the area."