CRICKLADE College has beaten off stiff competition from further education colleges across the UK to scoop first prize for their 2003/04 full-time prospectus at the FE First Marketing Awards.

The prospectus was judged against strict criteria and all entries had to supply comprehensive supporting data detailing the aims, target audience, usage and costs involved.

The national competition attracted more than 200 entries. Awarding the trophy, David Gibson, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, said: "I am so pleased to be awarding this prize to this particular college.

"This is a bold and exciting prospectus, clear with good use of past student profiles.

"It truly deserves to win."

Marketing co-ordinator Ruth Sparkes was responsible for producing the prospectus.

She said: "The prospectus is quite unlike anything the college has had before.

"We went back to the drawing board to identify our real target market and we've produced something that prospective students would actually enjoy reading.

"Strong use of colour, image and engaging text have been bought together and the result is a clear, vibrant and eye-catching brochure."

College principal Dr Tom Johnson added: "This is an excellent prospectus and an accurate reflection of the services, facilities and learning opportunities now available at Cricklade College.

"It's good to know that our efforts are being recognised at a national level."