THE Warrington Campus of the University of Chester celebrated 65 years of education on the ‘Padgate’ site this weekend.

A full programme of sports events took place, with current students playing former students and families were treated to a range of activities indoor and out.

Each of the departments invited Alumni and the Community to find out a little about their current activities with interest sessions and there was plenty of time for coffee and chat.

A colleague noted that the first students he taught on the campus would now be in their 40s and some had children approaching University age.

He was fascinated to find out how their careers and lives had progressed and how perhaps he had made a difference. Some of the original Padgate College students are now in their 80s!

The University worked hard to provide a welcome to all and connect students, alumni and community. It is relatively rare that such opportunities exist to reflect upon so many lives, making this celebration all the more special.

However what will be even more interesting will be how any connections remade there will further develop.

This importance of networking can never be underestimated and sometimes being on Facebook simply isn’t enough.

LAWRENCE Bellamy is associate dean at the University of Chester's Padgate campus and writes a regular column for business.