DR JOHN Sentamu made history as he inaugurated Professor Julie Mennell as the University of Cumbria's first woman vice chancellor.

The Archbishop of York and university chancellor said he was looking forward to working alongside Prof Mennell, with the university preparing to celebrate its 10th anniversary next year.

In front of a packed congregation at Carlisle Cathedral, Prof Mennell said she was looking to bring her experience from working at three other universities to the role.

She said: "I'm really proud to be vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria. It's a very special university that is providing opportunities for people across the county, in north Lancashire and further afield.

"I feel that I can bring my experience from working at three other very similar universities in the north east to the role to help take the University of Cumbria forward."

Dr Sentamu added he was looking forward to working alongside Prof Mennell. He said: "The university has a reputation for providing opportunities for people in Cumbria who are then able to go on and stay in the county."

The ceremony followed a week of graduations from the university, also held at the cathedral.