A heritage stone plaque has been unveiled at Christ Church University in Canterbury to mark its location as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The event was also the first in an exciting programme of arts, education and science activities this coming year to celebrate the institution’s Golden Jubilee.

The Portland stone plaque was carved by Canterbury mason Gary Newton and the inscription reads ‘Canterbury World Heritage Site. Part of St Augustine’s Abbey’. In the centre is also the World Heritage Site logo.

Vice-chancellor Professor Robin Baker was joined by the Bishop of Dover, the Right Reverend Trevor Willmott and other prominent figures from the local community to officially launch the university’s Golden Jubilee year.

The Bishop unveiled the stone which was followed by a blessing from the University’s Dean of Chapel, the Reverend Dr Jeremy Law.

Prof Baker said: "This is a spectacular moment for all connected with Canterbury Christ Church University. From our origins 50 years ago with a few staff and 70 students, to 20,000 students and being one of the largest employers in Kent, it has been an amazing journey.

"My predecessors built this institution with a culture and set of values that even today we are proud to live and subscribe to. Despite the current pressures on us, we see ourselves as a community of learning and compassion and that is what makes the University so special.

"The heritage stone shows the direction from the past to our future – an exciting 2012 and beyond."