One historic day

Consultant clinical psychologist, writer and broadcaster Professor Tanya Byron has made history by officially becoming Edge Hill University's first ever Chancellor, following her installation ceremony this weekend.

Professor Byron's installation took place alongside the University' s annual graduations for its health and postgraduate students, which saw the 41-year-old mother-of-two confer degrees for the first time as Chancellor.

She also presented an Honorary Doctorate of Education to Oliver Fulton, Emeritus Professor of Higher Education at Lancaster University. The award is in recognition of Professor Fulton's academic reputation and valued contribution as a Governor of Edge Hill University.

After accepting a verbal invitation from Pro-Chancellor Chris Trinick to become Chancellor, Professor Byron was robed in the traditional Edge Hill colours of green, gold and helitrope and received a standing ovation from an audience of graduands and her own family, friends and colleagues.

In her opening address, she outlined plans to raise the profile of Edge Hill University in the media and in government, by using her TV presence in series such as House of Tiny Tearaways and Teen Angels and her Downing Street connections following her recent Government white paper, Safer Children in a Digital World.

She said: "As Chancellor of Edge Hill University, I shall do my very best to get this incredible institution on the map - both nationally and internationally - and inspire so many people from all over the country - indeed, the world - to apply to us as their first choice university."

Dr John Cater, Vice-Chancellor of Edge Hill University said: " We are delighted to welcome Professor Byron as the University's first Chancellor. Her experience as a clinical psychologist, author, policy-maker, media personality and a mother resonates with the curriculum and ethos of Edge Hill and she will be an outstanding role model for our students over the next five years."