Students and staff at the University of Salford in Greater Manchester have joined forces to protest at plans to axe its modern language courses.

Managers plan to axe all modern foreign languages courses after 2017, despite a review which recommended they remain as part of combined degrees.

Members of the University and College Union (UCU) and students yesterday lobbied a meeting of the University’s Council.

UCU regional official Martyn Moss said: “Staff and students are united in their opposition to plans to axe foreign language courses at Salford.

“We believe that modern foreign languages courses form an important part of the university’s portfolio. Axing the courses risks further job losses as students are taught out and courses are ended.

“We hope members of the university’s council will take the views of staff and students on board and challenge the university’s plans.”