THE Duke of York was in the region yesterday to visit his namesake city.

During his trip to York, Prince Andrew officially opened Goodricke College, the first building on the University of York’s campus expansion, unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion.

He also met students living in the college and saw the wider Heslington East campus development.

It was an opportunity for the Duke of York, who is the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, to learn how Heslington East will help the University support economic prosperity.

Vice-chancellor Professor Brian Cantor said: “The Queen officially opened the first colleges at the University of York 45 years ago, so it is fitting that the Duke of York should be joining us to celebrate this major step in the university’s development.

“Building connections with business will be at the heart of Heslington East, making it a major investment in the regional economy as well as in research, teaching and learning.”

Goodricke College moved to its new home in September and provides self-catering accommodation for 600 students.

Prince Andrew also visited Jorvik Viking Centre where he presented a certificate to its millionth visitors – the Parkes family.