Northallerton college has improved and grown even further in the past four years to become a "very effective college."

This is one of the conclusions in a report by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education. It says the college has improved significantly since its last inspection in 1996, which itself resulted in a "glowing" report.

The present report says exam results at GCSE and A-level are even better. There have also been improvements in the quality of teaching; the learning skills of students are better developed and the curriculum is broader and richer, particularly for students with special needs and high-flyers.

The report says the granting of technology college status two years ago has considerably improved the use of information and computer technology as a learning tool. Under its comparatively new principal, Ms Jennifer Slater, the report says leadership is strong and very well focused and has been very successful in achieving the aims of the college.

Governors are very well informed and committed. The report says the expansion in the college is due entirely to the increase in the size of the sixth form About 90pc of students choose to stay on after 16 and their standards of work are very good.

It says almost all students have very positive attitudes, are enthusiastic and hard-working and are courteous and considerate. They respect people and property.

Teaching standards are very good overall and the report adds: "A high proportion of teaching is enthusiastic, imaginative and challenging."

There is a very strong provision for social, moral and cultural development. Summing up, the report praises progress and standards at work, very good quality teaching, impressive student support and strong, clear leadership. It says the college gives very good value for money.

"This report puts the seal of approval on all the hard work of students, staff and governors, as well an the support of parents and the wider community." said the chairman of the governors, County Coun John Dennis.

"The college has come through a period of great change and coped extremely well. It is now strongly positioned for the 21st century."

Reveller found dead in stream

A MAN who disappeared in Northallerton on Christmas Eve has been found dead in a local stream.

Police mounted a search for 25-year-old Mr Benjamin Smith, from Sheffield, who was last seen leaving the Durham Ox pub in the High Street at about 11pm.

He had been visiting his girlfriend in Northallerton and had been on a night out with friends. A body was later found in the beck which runs through the Applegarth.

Police said Mr Smith, who was 6ft 2in tall, slim with short wavy ginger hair and a beard, was not familiar with Northallerton.

They said they were not treating the death as suspicious, but the coroner had been informed and anyone who saw him late on Christmas Eve should call 01609 783131, ext 4457