BLACKBURN College is spreading the word about its higher education (HE) opportunities with its biggest-ever open day.

The college, which includes the East Lancashire Institute of Higher Education, will be open to the public from 10am to 8pm on Wednesday.

Staff will be on hand to provide information and advice on courses ranging from HNC, to work-related Foundation Degrees, honours degrees, postgraduate study and professional courses.

Areas represented include business, creative industries, science and technology, teaching, law, humanities subjects, the public sector and a range of other sectors, as well as guidance on careers, support and finance.

There will also be a chance for people to take a tour of the college campus and to meet staff and students who will be on hand to chat and answer queries on a one-to-one basis.

Local police officers and firefighters will be giving talks and demonstrations, as will a JJB fitness manager, who will run an outdoor fitness training session.

Visitors will also be invited to take part in a variety of taster sessions and interactive workshops with titles including "The rise of the machines - Robot Wars, Rockets, Maze-bots and Solar energy solutions" and "Applied Psychology - get to know yourself".

One of the highlights of the day will be the annual art and design exhibition which showcases emerging artists and designers in fine art, graphic design, photography, digital media and textile design.

The free exhibition is open to the public until July 2.

For groups and activities bookings contact Fiona Livesey, HE Liaison Officer on 01254 292594 or email f.livesey@blackburn.ac.uk.