The all-ages event was designed to strengthen links with all sections of the regional community and to showcase research, teaching and facilities at Lancaster University.

With more than 80 exciting activities lined up for visitors, from babies through to senior citizens, the ‘open doors’  showcase was the second of its kind of this magnitude on campus.

Head of Stakeholder Relations and Events at the University Sarah Wroe, whose team organised the action-packed day, said afterwards: “A wonderful time was had by all – the campus was a hive of activity with people of all ages taking part in a wealth of interactive activities, talks and exhibitions, and live entertainment in the sunshine.

“We were particularly pleased to meet so many local people who were genuinely impressed by the diverse and intriguing things that happen here.

“The event provided an ideal platform for local people to learn more about our excellent teaching, research and facilities, and we were delighted by the way the local community really embraced the opportunity to discover more about our great University.”

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Mark E. Smith, hosted a special lunch to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress of Lancaster, Coun and Mrs Robert Redfern, onto campus together with representatives from various local organisations and charities who have links with the University.

Visitors travelled from all parts of the North West, predominantly Lancaster and Morecambe, to take part in the fun which included displays by Lancaster Police Dog Unit and Lancashire Fire Service.

Activities, presented by departments right across the University – academic staff, students and professional services - together with local community organisations and charities, included talks, taster sessions, demonstrations, concerts, exhibitions and the opportunity to ‘have a go’ in many cases.

A fairground ferris wheel also proved to be hugely popular throughout the day.

Andrew Lidgett and Karris Beaumont, from Lancaster, visited the event with their two children, Freya and Heidi.

“The campus is so huge – and you just don’t realise what goes on here,” said Karris. “There has been so much to see and we have loved all the games. It’s been a really positive and good day out.”

Visiting from Morecambe, Roisin Hine, was so impressed with all the activities on campus that she and her family stayed all day.

“There has just been such a really nice atmosphere,” she said. “We have had a great day.”