Around 8,000 people celebrated the University of Bath’s 50th year with a free community festival on the Claverton Down campus on Saturday, 6 May.
Crowds could explore three zones; active, creative and discover, and had the chance to try out one of 15 sports at the Sports Training Village, experience a virtual reality art exhibition and fly a drone, meet a robot or build a crystal amongst dozens of other popular attractions.
Visitors could also relax with food and drink by the lake and enjoy live music throughout the day.
A highlight of the Festival saw the Red Devils, The Parachute Regiment’s freefall team, skydiving into campus at midday bearing a giant flag commemorating the 50th anniversary.
The team also delivered a peppercorn which was then presented to the chairman of B&NES, Councillor Alan Hale, by Thomas Sheppard, Chair of the University of Bath Council to commemorate Founders Day and the close half-century long working relationship between the University and Council.
Many of the University’s scientists and researchers gave interactive demonstrations and talks about their work.
The largest alumni reunion in the University’s history saw more than 800 former students return to the University to reminisce with old photos, see performances from reunited student bands and cheer on alumni teams in rugby, hockey and netball contests versus current students.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Provost Professor Bernie Morley, said: “We’ve had a wonderful Festival on campus today as part of our 50th anniversary celebrations. I’m delighted we were joined by so many visitors from the local community, staff, students and alumni.
“The event showcased the diverse range of activities and research that the University is involved in, as well as the talent and enthusiasm of our students and staff, and the facilities and opportunities we have for the local community.
“On behalf of the University I would like to thank all of our visitors for coming to celebrate with us.”
Over the past 50 years, the University has developed an excellent international reputation for conducting world-class research and providing students with exceptional learning and teaching.
For half a century the University and its students and staff have played an integral part in the city of Bath.
As the city’s second largest employer the University directly employs over 3,100 people whilst its student’s annually spend over 10,000 hours volunteering with local charities and organisations.
Last year, the University’s students raised more than £65,000 for local, national and international charities, adding to a total of almost £400,000 in the past five years.