Princess Anne becomes patron of Glasgow Caledonian University

Headshot of a smiling Princess Anne. She has dark greying hair and is wearing a black furry hat and a green coat, with a navy collar.Image source, Getty Images
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Princess Anne will follow in the footsteps of her mother in becoming a patron of the university

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The Princess Royal has become patron of Glasgow Caledonian University as part of celebrations commemorating its founding institutions.

Princess Anne will follow in the footsteps of her mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, who was patron of the Glasgow and West of Scotland College of Domestic Science.

The school, formed 150 years ago, later became Glasgow Caledonian University.

The principal, Prof Steve Decent, said Princess Anne's decision to take on the role was a "great honour".

Prof Decent added: "This is particularly poignant as we approach the 150th anniversary year of one of our founding institutions.

"Now, as then, we remain dedicated to delivering positive social and economic benefits to the communities we serve."

Queen Elizabeth became patron of the former college in 1944 when she was a princess.

When she married Prince Philip in 1947, students gifted the couple an antique cockpen chair.

As a token of her gratitude she sent a section of wedding cake in return which was later distributed among students.

The Queen renewed her patronage after her accession to the throne in 1952.

Prof Decent said he was looking forward to welcoming Princess Anne to the university in the near future.

He said: "It is a great honour to renew our long-standing royal connection.

"We look forward to discussing areas of keen mutual interest and exploring future opportunities for delivering great societal benefit with Her Royal Highness as patron."

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