ANGRY parents and residents have hit out at the lack of information given at a meeting called to discuss the future of a troubled Hampshire college.

Totton College invited students and parents to the event to attempt to allay their concerns after it was announced that A-levels would be scrapped.

But many were left with more questions than answers after acting principal Jo Landles gave a brief speech before directing students to speak to advisers.

Ms Landles – who would not to speak to the Daily Echo – told the crowd last night that staff were working hard to minimise disruption.

Those at the meeting were bemused that she did not take direct questions and complained that they were being kept in the dark.

A parent, who did not wish to be identified, said: “They have not helped really- the staff don’t seem to know anything.

“It’s the lack of information that is the most concerning from it all and if we had been kept informed we might have been able to prepare for this.

“We don’t even know if they are going to have teachers next week.”

As reported in the Daily Echo, the college has urged students to switch to other educational establishments including Richard Taunton Sixth Form College in Southampton and Brockenhurst College in the New Forest.

It hopes to merge with another college and is facing a cash crisis but suffered a huge blow last month when Eastleigh College pulled out of a potential rescue deal.

Speaking at the meeting, Ms Landles said: “We are working as hard as possible to minimise disruption at this time.

“I know that many of you are very upset and I recognise that but unfortunately, for the past two years the college has been fighting a financial battle.

“The decision is drastic but it’s necessary if the college is to remain in any capacity.”