Centenarian celebrations

The author who penned a biography about the life and work of the University's first principal has celebrated his 100th birthday.

Neville Masterman, a historian who taught in Budapest before the Second World War and later at Swansea University reached his milestone birthday on November 28th 2012.

His book, Viriamu Jones 1856-1901, Pioneer of the Modern University was published in 1957 and told the story of John Viriamu Jones, a brilliant young physicist, appointed as Cardiff's first Principal at the age of just 27.

Speaking about Neville, David Boucher, Professor of Political Theory and International Relations in the School of European Languages, Translation and Politics said: "Throughout Neville Masterman's long and distinguished career as an historian he became an expert in Welsh politics and social issues, including University reform. He is the author of the biography of our first Principal, Viriamu Jones. The book was based on a BBC talk to commemorate the centenary in 1956 of the Principal's birth.

"Neville remains active, and organises a luncheon club at Swansea University every Friday for friends and colleagues."