University celebrates 800th year

Several events are being planned to mark the 800th anniversary of the University of Cambridge.

The university is organising celebrations to be held throughout the year as it highlights the greatest achievements of its students.

The year's events will begin on 17 January when churches in central Cambridge will ring their bells in celebration of the anniversary.

Other events include a Charles Darwin festival and a science festival.

A Festival of Ideas is planned for October, while a closing ceremony will be held the following month.

A special fund has been created by the university to support other events proposed by individual departments, colleges and student groups.

The university dates back to 1209 when groups of scholars congregated at the ancient Roman trading post at Cambridge to study.

It has long been one of the world's most prestigious universities.