WHAT does it take to export home-grown expertise and knowledge to the USA, Israel, Finland, El Salvador and other parts of the world?

Bolton Institute of Higher Education, responsible for the rapid expansion of Bolton's share of the international education market, believes it is down to the quality of the goods and services on offer.

The Institute on Deane Road - runner-up for this year's Exporting Company of the Year award - has already established a strong niche internationally, exporting to 76 different countries. Now it plans to develop its services in central and southern America, India, China and the Middle East.

Professor Alan Kitson, who accepted the award, said it was great news for Bolton Institute and it was a new experience as it was the first time the Institute had entered the awards.

The Principal, Professor Bob Oxtoby, promised: "We'll be back next year to compete for a different title. And if there's a University of Bolton by then we will sponsor the event."

The prize money will be given to the International Society for overseas students at the Institute.

Vice Principal Wilf Gardner said: "It will probably be used to fund social activities."

About 12pc of its student population comes from outside the UK. Professor Kitson said the Institute acts as an ambassador for Bolton throughout the world. Prof Kitson receives an engraved trophy and a cheque for £1,000 from Harry Birtwistle and Richard Hurst (ref: F1599/24)

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.