THE University of Bradford has received the highest formal of national recognition for its pioneering work on the subject of dementia.

At a ceremony at Buckingham Palace yesterday representatives of the university were presented with the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education by the Prince of Wales, to recognise outstanding excellence, genuine innovation and practical benefit of work taking place at higher education institutions in the UK.

The University of Bradford was awarded the prize for its world-leading work into transforming the way people with dementia are cared for to benefit both sufferers of the disease and their families, and the care providers, influencing policy and practice both in the UK and abroad.

The School of Dementia Studies, chaired by Professor Murna Downs, has carried out sustained research into the illness and also helped train over 10,000 care staff across four continents.

Chancellor Kate Swann, Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Cantor and Professor Downs were at the ceremony in London to receive the award from Prince Charles.

Professor Cantor said that Bradford was extremely proud and honoured to be awarded the QAP for its dementia research, education and training.

He said: "This is the first QAP that we have been awarded, and it demonstrates the difference that the university is making in influencing policy and care for the most vulnerable people in our society, in the UK and across the world.

"Bradford's leadership in delivering solutions in the field of dementia care puts real meaning into the fact that 96 per cent of our research is ranked as world leading or internationally recognised."

Jo Johnson, minister for universities and science, said: "The outstanding academics recognised with these awards brings benefits to the everyday lives of millions of people in the UK and deserve this high honour for their work."