THE Duke of York, Prince Andrew, will officially open the new University Technical College on Thursday.

In his second visit this year to the site, the Duke will meet with students, staff and directors before being given a tour of the new building.

He will then unveil a commemorative plaque and officially open the college, which is currently teaching its first group of students.

UTC principal Angela Barker-Dench said: “The official opening of the college is an historic moment for UTC Swindon and another milestone in the town’s heritage.

“His Royal Highness has a passion for engineering manufacturing and apprenticeships. He shares our beliefs about skills and preparing students for the workplace or university.”

UTC Swindon occupies a new, £10 million state-of-the-art facility, with the Old School Building and the iconic Water Tower featuring prominently.

Both structures, which are Grade II listed, have been treated sympathetically, with the Water Tower being restored and brought back into educational use.