ALMOST two years ago, University College Worcester was able to celebrate being included, for the first time, in a prestigious university league table.

Then, it was rated 87 out of 123 British universities and university colleges listed in the Sunday Times University guide - a ranking that placed it higher than several well-established Midlands rivals.

It was a clear indication that it had come a long way in a very short space of time because Worcester had received university college status only in 1997.

There have clearly been problems. The chaos caused by a minority of students has meant misery for residents in St John's but, academically at least, the college has much of which it can be proud.

As its principal, Professor David Green, has pointed out, UCW has an excellent and improving record in delivering high quality higher education.

It's right at the top of the national league tables for student care and achievement.

Now UCW has been asked by the Government to make a formal bid for full university status.

The college can then grasp the opportunity to develop its partnerships with business, local authorities, health trusts, schools and further education colleges.

Worcester must no longer be one of a handful of cities not to have a full university - and the sooner the development happens the better.