PRINCIPAL of Seevic College will retire after battling prostate cancer.

Nick Spenceley was diagnosed with stage three prostate cancer shortly before taking up his role at the college in Thundersley in 2013.

Mr Spenceley underwent surgery just before starting at Seevic, however, two further cancer scares within 12-months has prompted his retirement.

He said: “I have now reached the age of 60 and I am still well, but given my recent health scares, I have taken the decision to enjoy my retirement and my family.

“I am proud that my cancer did not impact on my work at Seevic.

“Apart from the handful who were told at the time, nobody even guessed that I had been ill until I disclosed it during fundraising for Movember at the end of 2013.”

Mr Spenceley, of Aveley, near Thurrock, announced his decision to staff on Tuesday February 9 at the campus in Runnymede Chase.

College governors praised Mr Spenceley for his hard work and wished him a happy retirement.

Richard Kirkham, Chair of Governors, said: “On behalf of the Governing Body I would like to thank Nick for all his hard work and wish him and his family a very long and happy retirement.

“Under Nick’s leadership the college has improved teaching, learning and outcomes for students, while he has also successfully introduced a new culture and mind-set.”

He added Mr Spenceley, who will leave on July 29, will be leaving the college in good financial shape with opportunity for growth.

After graduating from Cambridge University, where he read English, Mr Spenceley’s career has seen him work at colleges across Essex and Hertfordshire.

Living with his wife Paula, Mr Spenceley spent seven years at Harlow College, serving as deputy principal before his time at Seevic, which he looks upon fondly.

He added: “Looking back on what will be three and a half years at the College by the time I depart, I am pleased that I have been able to re-focus the College on its essential mission.”

He sincerely thanked the college’s staff for their support.