HARPER ADAMS PUBLIC OPEN DAY

Posted 6 June 2002

MORE THAN 400 people attended Harper Adams’ Public Open Day on Saturday, May 25, the first since 1980.

Bad weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of those visiting Shropshire’s University College – the UK’s largest specialist provider of Higher Education for the land and food based industries.

Above all, this was a family event, with a range of activities and displays that emphasized Harper Adams’ diverse interests and community spirit.

A new small animal centre, designed to support Harper Adams’ courses in Animal Health and Welfare, and a countryside walk around the campus, were opened to the public. A bird hide and pond-dipping platform along the route ensured young hands were kept busy.

Fresh local produce was on sale at a farmers’ market and the students staged a Rag Fete that raised more than £250 for charity.

An injection of excitement was provided by the Engineering Department, which showed off its facilities by staging a series of off-road vehicle demonstrations and competitions. These included rides in an armoured personnel carrier.

Although the weather prevented the planned static balloon flights from taking place, students and ex-students alike battled against the elements in a showcase cricket match. The students First XI took on and conclusively beat a HOBGoblins (Harper Old Boys) side.

In addition, a range of demonstrations, course talks and displays highlighted Harper Adams’ range of HND’s and degrees in subjects such as Business, Agriculture, Land & Countryside Management, Leisure & Tourism and Engineering.

Richard Jopling, Open Day organiser, said: “We’re very pleased with the way the Open Day went and it was very encouraging to see so many local people enjoying the facilities and learning more about the opportunities at Harper Adams.”

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