A DAMNING Ofsted inspection is expected to blast Widnes and Runcorn Sixth Form College as one of the worst in Britain, the World can exclusively reveal.

Independent Government inspectors branded the institution as inadequate, blaming poor leadership and inept management, sources have confirmed.

Their four day fact-finding mission, which took place in April, scrutinised the college's performance over the past three years, judging it unsatisfactory and issuing very low grades.

"It is very damning," said a source, who did not wish to be named. "A lot of departments have been criticised."

More than 1,100 students aged 16-18 attend the college's two campuses in Cronton Lane, Widnes and at a new site in Runcorn.

Alan Harrison, acting principal of Halton College, was appointed interim principal on the final day of the inspection, when the college was informed of the alarming findings.

He has been sent into failing colleges throughout the country to mount rescue bids.

He said: "I am sorry I am unable to comment on the Ofsted report yet to be published."

A spokesman for the Learning and Skills Council said: "We can't comment until the report has been published."

The Ofsted report is imminent.

A Government decision on the proposed merger of Widnes and Runcorn College and Halton College is expected soon.