THE University of York has celebrated its 40th birthday with ten new professorships and a giant birthday cake.

The new professorships are part of a major expansion of the institution's academic departments, which will lead to an increase in student numbers, particularly postgraduate and international students.

A spokeswoman for the University said: "The research community is expected to benefit particularly from the expansion with more space available for research teams, spin-out companies, and opportunities to explore new subject areas."

Staff celebrated the university's landmark birthday with the biggest birthday party the campus has ever seen. To thank staff for their contribution to the university's success, the

Chancellor, Dame Janet Baker, and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Brian Cantor, hosted a special summer reception on Vanbrugh College Piazza for all members of staff.

A 4ft by 2ft birthday cake, donated by the university's

commercial services department, was cut by two members of staff who have worked at the university since it began.

They were Margaret Prosser, secretary to the librarian and Professor John Hutton, head of the department of economics and related studies. Archive footage of the building of the university and the Queen's visit was screened and a student jazz band played a selection of hits from the last 40 years.

Organiser Dominic Boyd said: "We all recognise that the University's successes are a team effort. All members of staff, whether cleaners or computer technicians, receptionists or researchers, have reason to

celebrate 40 years of achievement."

Updated: 10:49 Wednesday, June 25, 2003