A PETITION has launched as campaigners try and save a department at Stroud College after it emerged last week that it was at threat of closure. 

A Change.org petition to save the Health and Beauty department - which launched on Friday, July 12 - has already gained more than 500 signatures. 

This comes as Envy Hair and Beauty - the student salon at the college - announced on social media that its last day would be today, Friday, July 19. 

Their post added: "We have absolutely loved working here and will miss you all dearly,

"Thank you so much for being so wonderful over the last 16 years."

Nicola Morris, who started the petition, said: "As a client of the hair and beauty department at our local college in Stroud, I've seen first-hand the significant impact it has on our community including the money they raise for charity and the employment opportunities in their professional salon.

"The department not only provides an essential platform for students to pursue their passion and hone their skills in these fields, but it also offers affordable hair and beauty services benefiting numerous residents like myself.

"Unfortunately, this educational establishment is under threat of closure.

"The importance of vocational education like Hair, Make up Artistry and Beauty Therapy courses cannot be understated.

"A report by the Association of Colleges (AoC), highlights that 90 per cent of Hair and Beauty students stay in employment, education or training after finishing their course.

"This underpins the department's crucial role in providing our young locals with great future prospects and filling gaps in the local economy.

"We are calling on the decision-makers involved in this case to reconsider, prioritising the wishes of local people and future prospects of our local youth.

"We firmly believe that keeping this department running would be more beneficial for our community than shutting it down.

"We encourage everyone who values the importance of accessible education and recognises the role of this department in our community's fabric, to sign this petition.

"Together, we can make our collective voice heard and save our beloved Hair and Beauty department."

A spokesperson for the college said: "Decisions about the Stroud Hair and Beauty department are being managed via an internal consultation process, which is ongoing.

"All those involved or impacted have been communicated to whilst this is being worked through.

"Due to sensitivities around the process we will not be making any further comment at this time."

See the petition - tinyurl.com/mr4cxpdr