In Pictures: University celebrates century of progress

The University of Reading is celebrating the centenary of its Royal Charter, when it was officially given its university status and able to award degrees.

Initially founded as University College Reading in 1892, it was formed to provide higher education to the town's people.

Over recent weeks, special events and celebrations have been held at the university to mark its progress and impact over the decades.

Vice-chancellor Robert Van de Noort said a celebration which involved using the university's ceremonial sword to cut a special cake was a highlight.

"We're world class in agriculture, meteorology, climate change sciences – but we've changed over these 100 years," he said.

"We're very good at psychology, archaeology, the built environment – so we're still a very broad-based university with lots and lots of world-class activities."

He said he is "confident" about the university's future, despite the perilous state of many higher education institutions.

A community festival will be held at the university on 16 May, which will allow people to learn about its teaching and research and how it works with charities and the community.