Wrexham Brass (Glyndwr)

More than 500 guests including politicians, academics and friends of the university gathered to mark the event.

The formal ceremony, at which the university's chancellor, Lord Barry Jones, and vice-chancellor, Professor Michael Scott, were installed was preceded by a procession through the centre of Wrexham, led by civic leaders, fellows of the university and members of the academic staff.

Although the university was officially formed in July last year following the granting of university title by the Privy Council, the formal ceremonial launch celebrated the University's new status.

The ceremony involved a series of readings and music and included a performance by Wrexham Brass Glyndwr of four new fanfares and a specially commissioned piece, Gobaith Glyndwr/The Hope of Glyndwr, with words by Peredur Glyn to music by composer Owain Llwyd.

The university was also presented with its coat of arms by a herald from the College of Arms. The arms draw heavily on the original arms of Owain Glyndwr with features added to symbolise learning.

The day's celebrations were concluded with a concert and firework display.

Lord Barry Jones, who gave a speech on the historic day for Wrexham, this morning said the inaugaration parade was a joyous occasion for Wrexham. He said: "It was truly a historic occasion and I wish Wrexham every success for the future."

Professor Scott said: "The whole day was a wonderful celebration. It gave the opportunity to celebrate the tremendous achievement of ensuring Wrexham now has the university it so richly deserves."

A further series of community events, concerts, exhibitions and drama are planned to mark a year of celebration for the university, following the inauguration.

A full line-up can be found online at www.glyndwr.ac.uk.

The Secretary of State for Wales, Paul Murphy MP, received an honourary fellowship from Glyndwr at the ceremony.

The award was made in recognition of Mr Murphy's outstanding contribution to the development of government in Wales following devolution in 1999.

Mr Murphy said: "I'm absolutely delighted to receive this award.

"It is also a special day for the whole of Wrexham and North Wales."

During Mr Murphy's periods in ministerial office, he has been at the heart of a number of constitutional changes.

Not only was his first period as Secretary of State for Wales dominated by the creation of the National Assembly, but he was also at the heart of the discussions leading up to the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland that led to the restitution of a devolved administration in Belfast.

Professor Scott, congratulated Mr Murphy, saying: "Paul Murphy has been at the centre of government for most of the past decade. Throughout that time he has been a great supporter of Glyndwr University. It is fitting to recognise his work by inviting him to become a fellow of the university."

Glyndwr has also bestowed honourary fellowships on the counties of Wrexham, Denbighshire and Flintshire.

The first citizens in the form of the mayor of Wrexham, Cllr David Griffiths, the chairman of Denbighshire County Council, Cllr Raymond Bartley, and the chairman of Flintshire County Council, Cllr Quentin Dodd received the fellowships at the inauguration ceremony.

Professor Scott added: "We have strong links with all three counties and their support was instrumental.

"We work closely with all three counties for the benefit of the local and regional economy and the people of North Wales. I am very pleased to recognise that relationship at such an important celebration for the university