The last single sex college at Durham University opened its doors to its first male students this week.

The 92 male undergraduates were among 224 first year students joining St Mary's College, bringing to an end 106 years of tradition.

Although the college will be mixed, there will still be single sex areas for those who want them.

The change was announced last year against a background of small demand for places against rising applications.

Well-known alumnae of the college include the founding editor of BBC children's programme Blue Peter Biddy Baxter.

College principal Jenny Hobbs said: "As we open our doors to men we are preparing to become a distinctive college in Durham for women and men."

To mark the end of the 106 years as an all-women's college an event was held with more than 200 alumnae attending.

Ms Hobbs said single sex areas within the college would still be available.

She said: "Whilst we are looking forward to welcoming men through our doors we still understand that there is a significant demand for single sex areas and will continue to offer this to those that want it and provide appropriate facilities for this.

"Mary's is still very much an option for those who would prefer single sex residential areas."