All the fun of the farm came to High Wycombe when new university students came face to face with animals including an alpaca, sheep, goat, and pony.

The petting zoo was part of the Bucks Welcome, a week of activities to give students a rounded introduction to life at Buckinghamshire New University in Queen Alexandra Road.

The zoo was set-up on site and students were invited to pet and stroke the animals, which also included chickens, rabbits and a sheepdog.

The Bucks Welcome has also included special opening ceremonies at the Wycombe Swan Theatre, where students were addressed by Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rebecca Bunting, and enjoyed an interactive talk from two advertising graduates.

Students have also enjoyed circus skills and magic, as well as a range of activities organised by Bucks Students’ Union, including Freshers’ Fairs.

Ruth Gunstone, Director of Student Services, said: “The Bucks Welcome is an immediate opportunity for new students to settle and start making friends, both those who will be living in High Wycombe and those who will be based at home while studying.

“We hope that all of our new students are already enjoying life at Bucks and settling in well.”