University celebrates Diamond Jubilee and Forum opening

During the visit, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh met University staff and students and representatives of the counties of Devon and Cornwall. They toured the Forum, watched music and theatre performances by students and found out about some of the cutting-edge research being carried out by the University. They then joined guests for a Devon and Cornwall-themed lunch, prepared by University chefs.

University of Exeter Registrar and Deputy Chief Executive David Allen said: “We were delighted and honoured to welcome Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to the University of Exeter. The visit was a very special celebration and marked a historic day with the flagship Forum being officially opened.

“This remarkable new development will provide so many facilities and opportunities for everyone associated with the University of Exeter, for many years to come. Staff and students from across the University worked together to make the visit a success: from the cleaners, maintenance and grounds staff who ensured the campus looked stunning, to the chefs who cooked a wonderful lunch for our Royal guests, to our students who gave a number of fantastic music, dance and drama performances. We were delighted that so many people came to the campus to join the celebrations.”

The £48 million Forum development houses a new Student Services Centre, an extended and refurbished Library, new technology-rich learning spaces, a 400-seat lecture theatre, retail and catering outlets, a landscaped piazza and a new University reception, ensuring the University of Exeter offers an outstanding experience for students.

The Forum is part of a £350 million development programme across the University’s campuses in Exeter and Cornwall.

See more photos of the Royal visit on our Forum opening photo gallery.