Princess Anne is coming to Carlisle to help celebrate the University of Cumbria's 10th birthday.

The Princess Royal will visit the university's Fusehill Street campus on Wednesday, September 20.

Vice Chancellor Julie Mennell said: "We’re delighted to be able to welcome The Princess Royal to the university during such an important year for us and to have the opportunity to share with her the changes that are taking place.

"In our 10th anniversary year we have come a long way in delivering a skilled graduate workforce to meet regional and national needs, working in many partnerships to raise aspiration and attainment and equip our learners for practice within a wide range of professions.

"We are very proud of our achievements and the difference we make to economic prosperity, social impact and culture life in Cumbria and beyond."

As the only university to have a campus within a national park and linked to two World Heritage Sites, the Royal visit will be used to mark the 10th anniversary and celebrate the university, its many achievements and to highlight the significant future role and impact of the university in communities in Cumbria, north Lancashire and beyond.

Since it was formed in 2007, more than 32,000 students have graduated from the university which operates sites in Carlisle, Ambleside, Lancaster and London where 70 per cent of schools in Tower Hamlets employ at least one Cumbrian graduate.

This year 3,000 students will graduate from the University of Cumbria entering the workplace as professionals or continuing on to higher degrees.

Following a performance by university performing arts students, the princess will be invited to unveil a plaque to commemorate her tour in front of guests, many with close ties to the university.

Prof Mennell said: "With a new strategic plan which sets out more than ever how we aim to benefit the region, her visit comes at an exciting time and we’re proud to be able to mark the occasion and showcase our aspirations alongside the people and organisations we work closely with to make a difference to lives and our communities."