STUDENTS are being urged not to pack up their books for the summer holidays -- and think about carrying on with lessons instead.

Blackburn College's Institute of Higher Education plans to offer summer college classes for three weeks in August.

The course is aimed at pupils who have struggled to get places in higher education either due to lower grades than expected at A level or students who need some extra help preparing for the next academic step.

Brian Whitehead, dean of the East Lancashire Institute of Higher Education at Blackburn College, said: "Summer college is particularly aimed at students who want to get a taste of university life or think they may not get the grades they need.

"It is free for mature students and students from ethnic minority groups, those who are the first in their family to go to higher education, and those with a low family income. It is also free for anyone whose studies have been disrupted by personal or family circumstances such as illness or disability."

To find out more about Summer College call Liz Bamford on 01524 592622.