South Lanarkshire Council has been presented with a statue to mark the creation of Scotland's largest modern university - the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

The statue was created by internationally-renowned Scots sculptor Alexander (Sandy) Stoddart. Sandy chose to produce a small statue of 'Coila', Robert Burns' muse from his poem 'The Vision.'

In the poem Coila acts as Burns' inspiration, who drives him on to give up farming and focus on his true nature and vocation - writing. The statue therefore was created to reflect the essence of the ambition and drive of UWS.

Provost Russell Clearie MBE, who was presented with the statue by Professor Seamus McDaid, the Principal and Vice Chancellor of the university, said: "I am delighted to accept this statue on behalf of South Lanarkshire Council.

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"The council takes great pride in its efforts to ensure our young people get the very best educational start in life. So its is great for us to know that after they leave our academic care they can take advantage of the chances and choices that University of the West of Scotland provides.

"Without this essential partnership our young people would not have the tools they need to embark on successful careers in a wide range of areas."

The university was created following the successful merger between the University of Paisley and Bell College in Hamilton and builds on over 100 years of educational heritage.

The university, which has campuses in Ayr, Dumfries, Hamilton and Paisley, has over 20,000 students and incorporates the country's largest School of Health, Nursing and Midwifery, with almost 5000 students.

Professor McDaid said: "The presentation of this statue to South Lanarkshire Council highlights the special importance the university places not only on its Hamilton Campus, but on its relationship with the council.

"This is a hugely exciting time in the university's development and we are committed to making a significant and lasting contribution to the delivery of higher education in Hamilton."

The university has a planned investment programme of more than £160m, which will result in major benefits for all of its campuses and ensure the future success and stability of the institution. Recent developments at the University's Hamilton Campus include establishment of an innovative £2.1m engineering centre.

(GK/JM)