Comedian and actor Hugh Dennis installed as chancellor of the University of Winchester

Comedian and actor Hugh Dennis has been installed as the new chancellor of the University of Winchester.

He was presented with his robes of office at a special ceremony held at the university’s West Downs auditorium.

The TV star, best-known for his appearances as the long-suffering dad in sitcom Outnumbered and as a panellist on Mock the Week, succeeds broadcaster and gardener Alan Titchmarsh.

Sarah Greer, vice-chancellor, said the role of chancellor was an especially important one within the university, being the honorary head of the institution and presiding over high-profile events such as graduations.

Professor Greer said: “There’s been huge amount of pressure to find the right chancellor and I’m delighted we’ve found him.

“Hugh’s professional accomplishments – and equally importantly his love of life and learning, and belief in the importance of education – make him the perfect choice.

“I look forward to working with him.”

Hugh, 62, told the audience that he had “known and loved Winchester since childhood”.

His grandparents had lived near the cathedral, his mother’s first teaching job had been at St Swithun’s School and his parents had retired to Winchester.

He said: “Winchester is a very special university, and this is helped by the emphasis put on in-person teaching and making sure that students feel that they are part of a wider community.”

“All the people I most admire delight in the younger generation and work for, and applaud, their successes and that’s what the University of Winchester does.”

Commenting on his purple and gold robes, Hugh joked: “This is the most amazing costume I’ve ever had to wear.

“If this the home kit, I can’t wait to see what the away strip looks like!”

The ceremony also saw the installation of two of the university’s new pro-chancellors – Mohamed Bakhaty and Maggie Bruce – who will also undertake ceremonial and ambassadorial roles.

All three pledged to uphold the values of the university and commit themselves to serving it in their roles.

A third pro-chancellor – soldier and royal commentator Major-General Alastair Bruce – was unable to attend the installation due to broadcasting commitments in respect of D-Day commemoration events.

He will be formally inaugurated at one of the university’s graduation ceremonies in October.

The trio are the first pro-chancellors appointed by the University of Winchester.

• winchester.ac.uk

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