The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has announced that it Patron, HRH The Prince of Wales, will become its President from July this year, joining a small group of organisations who share this honour.

The announcement was made at the College's annual President's Dinner, presided over by Lord Rowe-Beddoe, the College's longest standing President, who will be stepping down after 15 years. Lord Rowe-Beddoe will continue his relationship with the College in the newly created role of Chairman Laureate.

Honoured

Chair of RWCMD's Board of Directors, John Derrick told 4BR: "We are so honoured and excited that His Royal Highness is developing his support of the College in this way and the news marks our 70th birthday in a very special way.

As our treasured Patron for the last 20 years, His Royal Highness has always taken an active and passionate interest in the progress of the College and its students and we are absolutely delighted that the relationship is deepening and will continue to grow."

We are so honoured and excited that His Royal Highness is developing his support of the College in this way and the news marks our 70th birthday in a very special wayRWCMD

Impact

Principal, Professor Helena Gaunt, paid tribute to Lord Rowe-Beddoe, saying: "When I first arrived here I was struck by the tangible impact that David has had, and continues to have, on this College. He has been a visionary supporter of its advancement over many years.

His support for our students is immeasurable. We very much look forward to working with him in his new role as the inaugural Chairman Laureate."