THE University of Chester will bid fond farewell to one of the longest standing members of its team later this year.

After 35 years of distinguished service to the university, the deputy vice chancellor, university secretary, clerk to the university council and bursar, David Stevens, will be retiring on December 31, 2012.

The university council has appointed Adrian Lee as university secretary and clerk to the university council and Anthony Parker as academic secretary with effect from January 1.

Mr Lee currently holds the position of academic secretary and director of legal services and Mr Parker is the university’s deputy bursar.

The post of chief finance officer/bursar will be advertised in September.

Vice chancellor Professor Tim Wheeler said: “The skills, talent, experience, judgment and unrivalled knowledge of the university and its history that David has will be greatly missed.

“I am sure colleagues would like to join me in wishing these three valued individuals well for the future.”