Hugh Dennis becomes University of Winchester's Chancellor
The Outnumbered star has officially been installed at a special ceremony
Hugh Dennis has officially been installed as the new Chancellor of the University of Winchester.
The actor and comedian, best known for roles in the likes of Outnumbered and Mock The Week, succeeds broadcaster and gardener Alan Titchmarsh in the role.
He was installed in the role this week, being presented with his robes of office at the event held at University’s West Down’s Auditorium.
Hugh was presented with his robes of office at the event held at the university's West Down’s Auditorium.
Among his first roles will be to oversee some of the university's graduation ceremonies later this year.
Vice-Chancellor of the University Professor Sarah Greer explained that the role of Chancellor is an especially important one within the University, being the honorary head of the institution.
"There’s been huge amount of pressure to find the right Chancellor and I’m delighted we’ve found him.
"Hugh’s professional accomplishments – and equally importantly his love of life and learning, and belief in the importance of education - make him the perfect choice. I look forward to working with him."
Hugh told the audience that he had “known and loved Winchester since childhood” – his grandparents had lived near the cathedral, his mother’s first teaching job had been at St Swithun’s School and his parents had retired to Winchester.
He said:
"Winchester is a very special university, and this is helped by the emphasis put on in-person teaching and making sure that students feel that they are part of a wider community.”
"All the people I most admire delight in the younger generation and work for, and applaud, their successes and that’s what the University of Winchester does.”
Hugh also found time to joke about his purple and gold robes, saying:
"This is the most amazing costume I’ve ever had to wear. If this the home kit, I can’t wait to see what the away strip looks like!”
The ceremony also saw the installation of two of the University’s new Pro-Chancellors – Mohamed Bakhaty and Maggie Bruce - who will also undertake ceremonial and ambassadorial roles.
All three pledged to uphold the values of the University and commit themselves to serving it in their roles.
A third Pro-Chancellor - soldier and royal commentator Major-General Alastair Bruce - was unable to attend the installation due to broadcasting commitments in respect of D-Day commemoration events. He will be formally installed as a Pro Chancellor at one of the University’s graduation ceremonies in October.
The distinguished trio are the first Pro-Chancellors appointed by the University.