Comment: Bristol's UWE is a huge success story

There were some who sneered when Bristol Polytechnic changed its name to the University of the West of England.

At the time it seemed little more than window dressing.

A clever PR stunt but nothing else.

After all, the buildings were the same, so were many of the courses.

But those who were quick to ridicule could never have foreseen the dramatic transformation that would take place in the following years.

Since the University of the West of England was born it has changed beyond all recognition.

It has grown physically and academically, in confidence and stature.

And it has developed a reputation for the quality and depth of its research, a fact reflected by the increase in funding announced a few days ago.

It has to be one of the greatest success stories in Bristol in recent times.

Its ambition has taken it to new heights and it shows no signs of stopping.

The latest plans for the development of its main site as part of its £300 million initiative are bold and imaginative.

Yet despite the changes there is one thing which the university has maintained – its links with the community.

A large percentage of its students are still drawn from the city and the neighbouring areas.

It may sit on the edge of Bristol but it is very much part of the city.

And it is something of which Bristol people are becoming increasingly proud.