A coastal college says it will remain open this week as almost a third of its staff go on strike.

Lessons were cancelled last week after 20 of Lowestoft Sixth Form College's (L6FC) 70 employees went on strike over a proposed merger between the college and nearby East Coast College (ECC) as part of the NASUWT teaching union.

MORE: Normal lessons cancelled as college teaching staff go on strike

Further strike action is planned for today and Tuesday, but principal David Gartland said the college would remain open.

He said: 'Further discussions have taken place and we will continue to work closely with all staff and union representatives to reassure colleagues regarding the proposed merger... The college will remain open on Monday and Tuesday and students are encouraged to come in and attend all lessons available to them.'

Where lessons are disrupted, students can finish course work, prepare UCAS statements and seek advice from non-striking staff.

The proposed merger was announced in March.

MORE: Year-old college which opened after merger could join forces with another