Lord Attenborough steps down as Sussex University chancellor

10:16am Wednesday 2nd April 2008

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Film star and acclaimed movie director Lord Richard Attenborough is stepping down as Chancellor of the University of Sussex.

Announcing his decision, Lord Attenborough said that, at the age of 84 and after ten years in the role, he felt that it was time to give way to a new Chancellor.

He said: "I have gained so much more than I could possibly give to the University and I am incapable of adequately voicing my gratitude. I will miss you all very much indeed."

Lord Attenborough, who starred in Jurassic Park and directed classics Gandhi and A Bridge Too Far, will officially stand down in July when he will preside over the summer graduations for the final time.

The university's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Farthing, said the university owed a tremendous debt of gratitude and acknowledged Lord Attenborough's outstanding contribution to Sussex.

They are now looking for a new chancellor. The role of chancellor involves both public activities, such as graduations and other events, and work behind the scenes at meetings, personal engagements and in offering guidance and advice to senior Sussex staff.

Have you met Lord Attenborough or was he at your graduation ceremony? Tell us your stories below.