MYSTERY surrounds the absence from work of the deputy principal of West Cheshire College.
The Chronicle asked for a statement from the Further Education College, which has bases in Handbridge and Ellesmere Port, after it emerged Penny Horsefield was not at work.
College spokeswoman Louise Lewis said: “West Cheshire College can confirm that the Deputy Principal is currently absent from the college. It is the college’s policy not to discuss individuals or provide information relating to personal and private matters.”
The Chronicle asked for the statement following several anonymous approaches to the newsroom.
We have left messages for Mrs Horsefield, of Queens Park, Chester, asking for an interview but at time of going to press she had not been in touch.
The college spokeswoman added: “We will be advising her regarding your enquiries and therefore she may contact you if she wishes to discuss the matter further.”
Martin Seed, chairman of the governors, confirmed Mrs Horsefield had not been in work since October 8. He added: “We have asked staff not to speculate on the reasons why and to put it to the back of their minds. They will be informed as and when she is back at work.”
Mrs Horsefield has been the key driver behind the college’s £65m redevelopment of its Handbridge and Ellesmere Port campuses.
Under construction in Chester is a state-of-the-art 6,000 sq m facility for science, engineering, manufacturing, logistics and construction. In Ellesmere Port, work is ongoing to create a 19,500 sq m building for subjects including hairdressing and beauty therapy, hospitality and catering and performing arts.
Ellesmere Port also includes a Higher Education Centre where students can take courses endorsed by the University of Chester.
