UNIVERSITY College of Worcester vice-principal Professor Dick Bryant has hung up his gown after nearly 10 years in the role.

Professor Bryant joined the university in 1993 and has seen many changes and developments during his time there, including the move from a College of Higher Education to a University College on the brink of full university status.

He has also seen new buildings spring up on campus - including the nursing and midwifery building, sports centre and drama studio.

Asked to list the highlights of his career, Mr Bryant suggested, among others, the establishment of the graduate school and the strong growth in research - with turnover up from around £150,000 to more than £1m today.

"It's been an exciting part of my career," he said.

"So many things have changed during my time here. Student numbers have doubled already and are set to double again over the next few years.

"But while much has changed, some important things have not.

"The friendly supportive atmosphere still exists, there are many great colleagues here, and the campus is still green and welcoming."

Mr Bryant now has a lot of travelling planned for his retirement, including a month in New Zealand, after which he hopes to undertake some ambassadorial work for the university.

Principal David Green said Mr Bryant's expertise would be greatly missed by the university.

"In all academic institutions, there are people who you can rely on totally - and Dick is one of those people," he said.

"We will miss his skills, his loyalty, his wisdom and above all his presence - he quite rightly commands respect here and huge affection."

Professor Judith Elkin, who is currently Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Information and English at the University of Central England, will take over the role of Vice Principal from September 1.