The fine work of a principal

I WAS a member of the board of management at North Glasgow College, Springburn from 2003 until 2011.

In 2003 the college occupied the site of the administration block of the former North British locomotive factory. Although a building of considerable historic interest, it was run-down, cramped and dingy, and totally unsuitable for student needs. The college was heavily in debt. Staff were doing their best, but seemed demoralised, hardly surprising with pay in the lowest quartile for the profession. By 2011 North Glasgow College had moved to an iconic new-build and campus in the heart of Springburn. The cost of £43 million had been absorbed and the college was operating debt-free and with a surplus. Staff remuneration was in the upper quartile. The learning environment for students was improved beyond measure.

I watched as this transformation was envisioned, engineered and implemented by the then Principal Ronnie Knox and a dedicated management team.

As recent events have noted Mr Knox resigned his position when North Glasgow College was merged with Stow and John Wheatley to form Glasgow Kelvin College (“College chiefs who approved pay-outs showed ‘ignorance’”, The Herald, October 13).

I left the board of management in 2011. I know nothing of the terms of any severance agreements.

I do know that Mr Knox did great and lasting service to the community of Springburn, and that this reorganisation has deprived the public sector of an inspirational leader at the height of his powers. Ronald E. Conway, 4 Kylepark Cresent, Uddingston.

These late season Alpine Blues have flourished in the fabulous autumn weather recently, adding a welcome touch of colour to the October landscape. This photograph was taken in my back garden at Springbank Cottage, Longcroft.