UNIVERSITY College Worcester gives the economy a massive £73m boost every year, according to a new study.

The survey has revealed the college is a "magnet of spending power" through its 600 employees and 5,200 students and is praised for its vital role in supporting the business community.

The survey showed:

6 A total of 85 per cent of UCW employees live in Worcestershire and Herefordshire, which gives a £7m take-home pay to households

6 Almost 700,000 contracts are awarded to suppliers supporting about 300 additional jobs in the area.

6 Just under half of the students rent in the area, which brings in £4.4m to both the college and local landlords.

6 Students living outside the area bring in £9m of extra spending to the area.

"It's clear that UCW plays a key role in helping to boost the local economy and makes a major contribution to the sub-region's prosperity and to improving people's quality of life," said Dr Geoffrey Elliott, director of external affairs.

"While our primary goal is the provision of high quality higher education opportunities it's important to recognise the full impact UCW as an organisation has at a much wider level.

"The college is a major magnet of spending power and this makes a substantial contribution to local households, shops and businesses.

"UCW has extensive links with employers, ranging from consultancy to customised training as well as offering access to specialist equipment and expertise.

"Working in partnership with both the public and private sector, we have been highly successful in attracting funding, nationally and internationally to support innovative local projects.

"We are also heavily committed to widening participation in higher education and reaching groups which have been traditionally under-represented, enabling these students to reach their full potential in the labour market."

A full copy of the study can be viewed at www.worc.ac.uk/cfbp