Through Old Joe

Nice to be in Birmingham again.

This photo is of a student walking through the arch beneath 'Old Joe', otherwise known as the Joseph Chamberlain Clock Tower which dominates the Chancellor's Court of the University of Birmingham. I'm very pleased to see that they are at last (after more than 100 years), completing the beautiful semi-circle of buildings around the Court. Next to the Aston Webb building will be a new concert hall and facilities to relocate the Music Department.

The clock tower is 100 metres high and built of Accrington red brick, as are many of the buildings here. I think this is how 'Red Brick' universities came to be known so. Chamberlain was the university's first Chancellor, but should also be remembered as the father of the Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain (him of 'Peace in our time' fame, when he thought he had Hitler's word he wouldn't be naughty).

Maybe more tomorrow, if I have time. Sorry, but I will have to catch up with fellow blippers when I'm back at base. have a good Friday.