Duke of York will become the Chancellor of Huddersfield

He is already involved in the work of the university. In 2013 he became its patron and Huddersfield also opened the Duke of York Entrepreneur Centre where a team of business mentors provide support to young people. Prince Andrew has regularly visited the university in connection with his work encouraging young entrepreneurs.

The Duke will be installed as chancellor in a ceremony on Monday July 13 where he will also receive an honorary doctorate.

The university’s vice chancellor professor Bob Cryan, said he was delighted when the Duke of York accepted the invitation. “It is obviously a great honour and a source of great prestige to have a member of the Royal family at the head of our university, but in the case of The Duke of York, this is much more than a ceremonial appointment.

“He has a real commitment to the development of entrepreneurial and digital skills among young people and fully appreciates how important they are to the future of UK Plc.

“When he visits us and talks to students who are launching businesses, his grasp of detail and his ability to get to the heart of an issue are always highly impressive. Also, he has consistently taken an interest in the University of Huddersfield and the progress that we are making. Now he will be at the heart of the story.”

Prof Cryan also praised the outgoing chancellor, Sir Patrick Stewart. He said: “He has been the most tremendous asset to the university during the long period he has been Chancellor and has shown great commitment to the role – an exemplary Chancellor in every respect. We are delighted that he has accepted the invitation to be an Emeritus Chancellor and continue his connection with the institution.”