COLLEGE bosses are set to receive a Royal seal of approval from the Duke of York for their endeavours in science and maths education.

Prince Andrew will visit Nelson and Colne College tomorrow, following a stellar year for the Scotland Road institution.

And the Duke will present the college with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) status from the New Engineering Foundation.

He will unveil a plaque at the site and hand over a scroll to mark the event.

This year, college students notched up 100 per cent pass rates in A-level and advanced vocational qualifications.

College spokesman Sarah Forrest said: “During his visit, the Duke of York will also meet with some of our business, hair, beauty and catering students to learn about their entrepreneurial endeavours and tour a STEM exhibition in our sports hall.”

Prince Andrew is no stranger to Pendle or East Lancashire as this is his third visit to the area in the last decade or so.

The last time he was in Pendle in 2004, he visited fabrics giant Panaz and Padiham firm Equestrian Surfaces.

He also officially opened Bradshawgate House, the head office of the North Lancs Training Group, in March 2004.

Before that, he was a guest at Turf Moor in 2001, when he toured a Burnley College computer suite there, having also visited the town’s general hospital and Cliltheroe Grammar School.

Prince Charles, a confirmed Clarets fan, is a more regular visitor to East Lancs however, and his charitable trust is set to open offices at Burnley’s Weavers’ Triangle.