Dorset farmer Martin Clunes has been appointed as the new chancellor at Hartpury University and College (Hartpury University and College)
An actor turned farmer has been announced as the new chancellor at an educational setting which specialises in agriculture.
Hartpury University and College has confirmed the appointment of Martin Clunes to the role of chancellor on Thursday (February 15).
The Gloucester-based university and college - specialising in education providers in animal, agriculture, business, equine, sport and veterinary nursing - said it had been delighted to welcome the actor and presenter as their inaugural chancellor.
He will take up the position in the summer, the educational provider confirmed.
Mr Clunes - known for his roles in the likes of Doc Martin and Men Behaving Badly - will serve as the honorary head of both specialist educational institutions, representing Hartpury in a ceremonial and ambassadorial capacity - which provides undergraduate, postgraduate, diplomas, A-Levels and T-Levels in agriculture.
The Bafta winner also operates a 130-acre farm in Beaminster, Dorset, which is home to livestock including cows, sheep and chickens.
Mr Clunes, who has also received an Order of the British Empire, said he was 'thrilled' to be bestowed the honour at a 'hugely respectable' institution which had been established after World War II primarily as an agricultural education centre which had only 50 students.
"I am deeply honoured to be appointed as the inaugural chancellor of Hartpury University and College," he added.
"I look forward to sharing many of my passions and interests with like-minded students, staff, governors and alumni and am excited to share in their numerous success stories.
"I also look forward to advocating for the University and College's many impressive achievements, helping to champion and support Hartpury at an exciting time in its 75-year history."
Professor Andy Collop, vice-chancellor, principal and chief executive of Hartpury University and Hartpury College added: "We are delighted that Martin will become our first chancellor and look forward to him playing a pivotal supporting role in the growth and evolution of Hartpury University and College.
"Martin's commitment and experience in the equestrian, agricultural, animal and countryside realms align particularly well to Hartpury's own values and specialisms.
"I have no doubt that he will contribute to Hartpury's rich heritage and help to inspire staff and students alike."
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