Wigan and Leigh College former governor awarded MBE in Queen's Birthday Honours list

A former governor at Wigan and Leigh College has been honoured in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.
Frank CostelloFrank Costello
Frank Costello

Frank Costello, a recently retired chairman of the governing board at the college, has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

He had dedicated the last 20 years to the role of college governor, and the last three of those as chairman.

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During this tenure, the college has significantly increased the breadth of learning opportunities and qualifications available to young people. This include the development of higher degree apprenticeships and extra provision for students with special educational needs.

Clive MemmottClive Memmott
Clive Memmott

During his period as chairman of the governing board, the college has been transformed and is now in the top 13 per cent of further education colleges nationally for performance. He was named Educate North's College of the Year in 2018 and achieved the highest student satisfaction rates in the Greater Manchester each year during his final three years.

Anna Dawe, principal of Wigan and Leigh College, said: “I am thrilled for Frank and his family and am so proud that he has been recognised in this way. He has been a huge part of the

College for many years and has acted as an exceptional role model for other governors.

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"His dedication to the college community has been absolute and he has influenced greatly the positive impact the College has had on the lives of individuals.’

“His commitment to the further education sector is significant and this honour is a great tribute to him and his achievements.”

Frank said: “As the former chairman of Wigan and Leigh College, I am absolutely thrilled and humbled to receive this honour. Whilst recognising that it is a personal to me, I believe it also recognises the excellence of the college, and those who work hard to make it successful.

"As the chairman, I was fortunate enough to lead a very talented and committed board of governors, dedicated to creating opportunity for students and generous in giving their time and expertise, so that others might benefit.

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"We were also well served by a small but excellent executive team, with gifted staff, ably led by principal Anna Dawe, who sets the standard with her vision, drive and determination. "Collectively, we created something very special for our students and the wider community.

"The college performs a vital role in making further and higher education accessible to the local community, and through it, transforming the lives and dreams of so many."

He said: "In my 20 years as a governor, I enjoyed many highlights, but few compare to seeing the parish church packed with delighted students, with their proud families and tutors, gathered to receive their awards and degrees; all made possible through the college and its culture.

"However, the college cannot achieve its ambitions alone, and I was always grateful for the support of the council, the combined authority and a range of other partners.

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He added: "It was my privilege to be part of this experience.”

Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Chamber chief executive Clive Memmott has been awarded an OBE for services to the business community in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Clive has been the Chamber’s CEO since autumn 2010 and has guided the Chamber, the UK’s largest, through a period of growth.

This has seen him firmly establish it as a leading business organisation representing its members, delivering more services across the wider Greater Manchester business community and playing an increasing role in local decision making.

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On his award Clive said: “I am of course delighted at this award and the recognition, but it is also a reflection on the team at the Chamber, our fantastic members , partners, patrons and all the other organisations that work with us that make up the Greater Manchester business community.

"It’s crucial though that our work doesn’t just focus on the business side of things, but takes into account the culture and wider community of the city region we work and live in. That is an important part of my role and something that means a lot to me.”

In addition to his role at the Chamber Clive sits on a number of boards of local and national groups including the British Chambers of Commerce.