THE woman who successfully masterminded Bolton's dream of university status is to retire next year.

Mollie Temple, along with politicians, business leaders and students, fought for more than 10 years to win university status for the former Bolton Institute.

The 64-year-old vice-chancellor will stand down in March and be replaced by Dr George Holmes, who is currently the principal and chief executive of Doncaster College and University Centre.

Dr Holmes, aged 44, is currently heading a move to give the South Yorkshire town its own university by 2010. His previous role was deputy vice chancellor at the University of North London.

Mrs Temple came to Bolton seven years ago after a stint as pro vice chancellor at Sunderland University.

Lorraine Brannan, the chairman of governors at the University of Bolton, said: "The board is delighted to appoint Dr Holmes. We consider he is the ideal person to build on the outstanding achievements of our current vice chancellor."

Dr Holmes said: "I have been impressed by the absolute commitment demonstrated to me in my recent visits to Bolton by colleagues at the university. I am honoured to have been appointed."

Mrs Temple is currently away on holiday.