THE region can now boast its own Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) for media after more than £300,000 was invested in staff and equipment.

Darlington College, renowned for its media training courses, upgraded its Media Design Centre after being selected for CoVE status by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).

Pam Eccles, chief executive of Tees Valley LSC opened the facility.

She said: "The college has embraced the CoVE idea and is providing facilities for young people, adults and employers, which is excellent work.

"Providing opportunities like these, which excite the imagination, really helps us to get people to think about their potential."

Darlington College of Technology was among 70 selected from 370 CoVE applications to the LSC. It was one of only six in the region to win the status. As a result, it was awarded £500,000 to develop courses and facilities.

Sarah Farley, principal and chief executive of the college, said the past year had been devoted to developing a range of courses to meet the needs of industry.

"We have a unique partnership involving the college, the LSC and employers," she said.