WEYMOUTH College principal Liz Myles has been suspended.

The college has confirmed Ms Myles has been suspended from the post pending an investigation.

It is unable to provide any further information.

A statement issued by the college said: "We have no further comment other than to confirm that the Principal Liz Myles has been suspended from her post, pending an investigation.

"To ensure we maintain the integrity of the investigation, no further information can be provided to you at this time.”

The college has been in the headlines recently as it has faced a number of cost-cutting measures. It has been working with the Further Education Commissioner to reduce its curriculum to save money.

The college made a U-turn in September on a controversial decision to close its library as part of a financial efficiencies programme.

In August the college, which employs more than 500 staff, entered a period of consultation over potential redundancies that could affect up to 21 jobs at all levels of the organisation.

That came after Dr David Collins, the FE commissioner, conducted a review in March of the college’s financial position, during which he praised Weymouth College for the progress it was making.

Liz Myles told the Echo in September: “We’re reducing the curriculum to what is absolutely viable. We have had to reduce a couple of courses which had few numbers.

“We have had a higher intake of students, last year our numbers increased by 15 per cent, but the financial struggles we face correspond to cuts in the public sector."

As part of the ongoing recovery programme the college, which has seen large improvements in performance, is working with the FE commissioner on a Structure and Prospects Appraisal.

Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South Dorset Simon Bowkett said he had been contacted by a number of people connected to the college about the news.

He said: “The exact circumstances are unclear at present, and it would be inappropriate to comment or speculate on the impacts of this news until the college makes its position clear once the investigation that is now underway reaches a conclusion.

“However, it is of course well known that the college is subject to a Structures and Prospects Review by the Further Education Commissioner, and has been – and remains – under acute financial pressure.

“At this time, my primary concern is for the college’s students, apprentices, and staff who now enter the Christmas period with considerable uncertainty, and I shall be offering whatever support I can in the coming weeks and months to the college’s Board of Governors and to the Leadership Team."

Mr Bowkett added: “I believe Weymouth College can and should play a full part in the provision and development of local skills, and in bringing more jobs and better jobs to the local area.

"It is vital that the college now pulls together to focus on securing its future, linked to other local skills and employment strategies, and in partnership with local business leaders and community organisations.”