News

The North East's oldest university, Durham, celebrates its 175th birthday

(18 March 2007)

Durham University begins public celebrations of its 175th anniversary next week, with a dedicated programme of events at its Stockton campus, Queen's, from 12 to 17 March. The anniversary events are just some of many taking place in the region during 2007.

Durham's 175 year history has seen some incredible changes and achievements growing from one college in 1832 to sixteen colleges currently, opening a brand-new campus in Stockton in 1992, and numerous scientific breakthroughs such as discovering a new species of mouse, knowing how mud volcanoes are created and how long they will erupt, and inventing an innovative test to diagnose prostate problems. The events in Stockton will bring together university staff, students and local communities with activities including street dancing, dragon boat races and other sports, University Challenge with local schools, health and education exhibitions, and a charity balloon release. Around 15 schools and community groups from across Tees Valley will be taking part in the performances and competitions. The celebrations in Stockton, themed "Stockton as a University Town", form the launch of a year of activities and events aimed at raising awareness of the University whilst enthusing many about the possibilities it can offer - from offering the impetus to try something new, to an excellent education leading to better career prospects, to the opportunities for personal and social development. Dr Bill Bryson, Chancellor of Durham University said: "This year is very exciting because it is giving us all a chance to look back on the fantastic history of the University and celebrate the contribution of our students, staff and alumni but at the same time share our plans for the future with the communities around Stockton and Durham." With 175 years behind it, Durham looks forward to a continuation of innovations and discoveries as well as playing its part in broadening the horizons of future generations. Researchers are currently working on numerous exciting projects which could change the way we see or do things. As examples, teams are constructing some of the biggest and most powerful telescopes in the world, others are working to understand how stem cells can improve people's lives with knowledge rapidly increasing whilst others are aiming to make large wind turbines more cost-effective and reliable. Professor Sir Kenneth Calman, Durham University's Vice-Chancellor, added: "I think it is very fitting that we launch our 175 celebrations at Queen's Campus which was opened as a brand-new purpose-built facility only 15 years ago. Its colleges, excellent degrees and forward-thinking research are very much an example of continuous growth and innovation at the University." Christopher Eyeington, a second year medical student from New Marske, will be performing at the celebrations with his local band the T's. He said: "I think it is really exciting to be part of this. The fact that the university has such a history behind it is quite important to me because it is something to look up to. I hope that this week increases people's awareness of Stockton as a university town and that we can surprise one or two people by showing them what we can do!" Laura Bailey is a third year student from Wolverhampton reading Human Sciences. She is club-captain of the University's cheerleaders Durham Divas who will be showcasing their competition material. Laura said: "I hope this week at Stockton will raise the profile of Queen's Campus and its students as valuable members of Durham University. We are all really excited to be part of the University's special birthday and also looking forward to showing people what cheerleading is all about." The University is celebrating its anniversary with events throughout the year. These include a sports weekend, an honorary degree ceremony, a grand alumni reunion weekend and a special premiere of a classical music composition by former Deep Purple keyboard player, Jonathan Lord.