A message from the Vice-Chancellor to the Lancaster University community upon the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Dear members of Lancaster University,

I am writing to you as the nation joins together in a period of remembrance for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

This is a sombre and solemn day as we mark the death of a monarch who has been ever-present throughout our lives.

Her Majesty the Queen holds a special place in the history of the Duchy of Lancaster and very particularly in our institution, having personally approved the Grant of a Charter which constituted and founded The University of Lancaster in 1964. She then visited our new community at Bailrigg campus in 1969.

Ever since, she was our University’s Visitor, a ceremonial role where she had de-facto authority over matters of dispute. She undertook this role in a similar manner as her reign, with respectful deference and trust in our self-governance. We are very proud of our association with the longest-reigning monarch in our nation’s history.

There will be a period of mourning in our University, including time set aside to pay our respects. Communications will be shared with you in the coming days with more details of this.

For today, we lower our flag to half-mast and I ask you to join me in remembering the life and service of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

With best wishes,

Professor Andy Schofield

Vice-Chancellor