SUPPORT is growing for two university lecturers facing compulsory retirement.

Celebrated academics Sheila Rowbotham and Terry Eagleton are being forced to stand down from Manchester University because they both turn 65 this year.

Both professors, whose books are compulsory reading for thousands of students, are world-renowned in their fields.

But the university, which has only just paid off a £30m debt, say they do not have enough money to renew their contracts.

Now a group of prominent researchers have thrown their weight behind the pair's campaign to continue teaching.

A letter signed by 22 academics and lecturers from Britain and America has been published in a national newspaper, urging university bosses to reconsider their decision.

It said: "Rowbotham is one of the major pioneers of feminist history and a powerful voice of the international women's movement.

"Eagleton is a figure of global intellectual stature thanks to his work in literary theory and cultural studies.

"They continue to be active and productive scholars and teachers.

Dramatic illusion

"The affair is a dramatic illustration of the conflict between commercial and intellectual values in the contemporary academy."

The international group includes lecturers from prestigious institutions such as Goldsmiths and King's College, and Duke University in the US.

Feminist historian Prof Rowbotham is appealing against the university's decision not to renew her contract.

Prof Eagleton, a renowned literary critic, has indicated he plans to take legal action against his employers.

An internet campaign for both lecturers has been supported by more than 1,000 people.

David Beale, from the University and College Union, which is representing the pair, said: "Professors Sheila Rowbotham and Terry Eagleton have immense international reputations and we would like to see these staff stay at Manchester University."

A separate campaign has been launched by students upset about some library and computer facilities and the level of one-on-one teaching time.

The institution is in the process of shaking-up how courses are run.

In a leaked memo to governors, university president Alan Gilbert acknowledged that resources were an issue but blamed increased student numbers and long-term national under-funding for the problem.