Sheila Hancock has enjoyed a long and varied career, both on stage and in print Image Credit: Brian Fichardo

Sheila Hancock has been installed as the new University of Portsmouth chancellor in a high-profile ceremony at the Portsmouth New Theatre Royal and the Students' Union.

The actress attended a ceremony at the New Theatre Royal attended by her friends and family, university staff and local dignitaries.

After the ceremony, Hancock was the guest of honour at a champagne lunch held in The Students' Union, with the University's Big Band providing entertainment.

Pugwash News was given the chance to speak to the Isle of Wight-born actress, and asked what she planned to do while in position, she said: "One of the things that I'm quite passionate about is that the Arts faculty could be better, and there is that space behind the New Theatre Royal which is crying out for a new building which ideally would be incorporated with the theatre.

Image Credit: Brian Fichardo

"I think one of the main objectives, if I can contribute anything, is to make it known what a good place [Portsmouth] is. At the moment I think people don't blow their trumpets enough - not enough is being said about how good the university is nationwide."

Ms Hancock, who received an honorary University of Portsmouth degree in 2005 in recognition of her services to drama, added: "I think [the city is] a sensational place.

"Portmsouth used to be a really dreary hole. I used to tour here with plays in the 50's ... Portsmouth people aren't going to like that, but now I think it's stunning - such a feeling of excitement.

"You just feel things are beginning to happen and I love being in places where it's beginning."

Asked whether she feels the University's comparatively young age makes a difference to her position, the acclaimed actor and author said: "I would not like to have been the chancellor of a university that is very firmly established and bound with tradition. I love the idea that this is a new place that's constantly changing and constantly growing."