Pipes and drums rang out in glorious sunshine as Cornwall celebrated its first university status.
Falmouth has had a higher education institution for 110 years but can now boast the county's first university.
Town and gown came together in a riot of colour and noise as the Kernow Pipes and Drums accompanied dignitaries and staff from the university through the town in blazing sunshine.
James Williams, chairman of the board of governors, said the new university status was the culmination of years of hard work.
He said: "Falmouth has changed out of all recognition in the last 15 years. We have been recognised all over the world as a first class provider of higher education in the creative disciplines and that goes hand in hand with us being Cornwall's first university."
David Willetts, Minister of State for Universities and Science, recognised Falmouth's status as a full university following a rigorous appraisal process. Final Privy Council approval was granted in November 2012.
Over the last 10 years Falmouth has seen student numbers triple to more than 4,000 and has benefitted from more than £100 million of investment in world-class facilities at its two campuses in Falmouth and nearby Penryn.
Mr Williams said the university status was good news for all young people in Cornwall.
He said: "It's an opportunity for young people in Cornwall to study for a top-class without leaving the county. Many of our students from Cornwall are from families that have not had a university education."
Crowds lined the streets of Falmouth as the procession made its way from the town hall to a service at the church of King Charles the Martyr.
Professor Anne Carlisle, vice-chancellor of Falmouth University, said staff and students were riding a wave of excitement.
She said: "It's almost like we've waited 110 years for this and we are now holding a year of celebrations. Today is a symbolic acknowledgement of what we have achieved."
Professor Carlisle said the university status meant that Falmouth had "joined a very select club".
The professor has been in charge of the university for the past three-and-a-half years and was delighted with how quickly university status was granted.
She said: "It's been achieved two years earlier than expected. We have got there much sooner than intended so that's very exciting. It's wonderful for our students who can now graduate from Falmouth University."
