The University of Kent has brought forward its plans to axe lectures to this morning.

It had been due to switch to remote teaching from Monday (March 23), but has taken decisive action in the wake of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's advice yesterday to avoid unnecessary social contact.

But despite the move - which will see students taught online - the two main libraries across the university's campuses in Canterbury and Medway will remain open.

In an email to students last night, vice-chanceller Professor Karen Cox said: "I’m writing to you now to let you know that, following this evening’s Government briefing, we have brought forward our decision to move fully to remote teaching with immediate effect.

"This means that all face-to-face teaching and supervision is now suspended from tomorrow as we move to online teaching.

"The Drill Hall and Templeman Libraries and campus study spaces will remain open for the time being.

"We are maintaining all essential campus services. On-campus accommodation remains open.

"Please continue to engage with your academic work. Your school will be in contact with you, keeping you informed of the necessary alterations to your teaching and assessments. Please also stay in touch with your school and let them know if there are any problems with your studies.

"We are already working on alternative methods of examination and will provide you will more information as soon as we can.

"This continues to be a challenging time for as all but I want to assure you that my colleagues and I are doing everything we can to support you.

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