A BELOVED teacher has stepped down after 33 years working at a town college.

Martin Fordham was head of hospitality at Colchester Institute.

He started as a lecturer at the Sheepen Road site in 1986 working his way up the department to become its leader in 2014.

Staff organised a Bake Off-style competition to bid Mr Fordham farewell.

Ian Perkins, assistant area head of hospitality said: “Martin was the reason that I got into teaching. He has offered great support for staff and his door was always open.

"He has lived for his students over the past 33 years.

"You could go anywhere in the industry locally and there will be someone who has been taught by Martin. It has been a joy to work with him over the years.”

Jason Sant, was taught by Martin in 1989 and returned 13 years later to apply for a teaching role.

He said: “Martin was my tutor for three years at the college and he was great.

"We all looked up to him and he was the kind of chef we wanted to be.

"In 2002, I came back and got a job as a lecturer and Martin became my line manager.”

Mr Fordham said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time at the college and used his goodbye to call for better funding for the team.

He said: "[The team] have and will continue to have a positive impact on so many young people’s lives, such are the qualities within the team.

"We have taught a winner of BBC Master Chef the Professionals, produced the captain of the British Team at the Patisserie World Cup in France and been awarded the National College Restaurant of the year on several occasions, just to name a few achievements.

"Colchester Institute will always be focused on making a difference, developing and nurturing the potential of young people in Essex for many years to come.

"I do hope the government recognises the value of Colchester Institute’s work and starts to fund further education colleges in a way they so, so deserve."