Minister for Education John Cortes was a guest of honour last week at events to celebrate the 175th Anniversary of St Mary’s University at Strawberry Hill, in Twickenham.

The events included a celebratory Mass of Thanksgiving at the University Chapel followed by a lunch. The Mass was presided over by His Eminence the Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who is Chancellor of the University, with representation also of senior leaders of other Christian denominations. 

Gibraltar has a long association with St Mary’s with many Gibraltarians having studied there through the decades. Vice Chancellor Prof Anthony McClaran, who hosted the events, commented that he was keen to maintain and further develop links with Gibraltar and to welcome more Gibraltarian students in the future. 

Other dignitaries at the event included the Mayor of Richmond Cllr Penny Frost and Gareth Roberts, the Liberal Democrat leader of Richmond Upon Thames Council. Minister Cortes was accompanied by Director of Education Keri Scott and by Guy Dumas from the Gibraltar Office in London.

Minster Cortes took the opportunity to catch up with Cardinal who he has met during his visit to Gibraltar in 2013.

Minister Cortes commented: “It was clear that St Mary’s University has a great affection for Gibraltar and I am certain that the many Gibraltarian alumni will be pleased to learn that they are well remembered and regarded. I look forward to ensuring that the connection continues.”