A former MP and alumnus of Aberystwyth University who “played a significant role in the life of Wales” has been named as the institution’s new Pro-Chancellor.

The Rt Hon Elfyn Llwyd was appointed as Pro-Chancellor of Aberystwyth University last week and said he was “greatly honoured” to take on the honorary role.

The barrister and former MP, who is an alumnus of the University, took up his role with immediate effect on Friday.

Mr Llwyd, who represented Dwyfor Meirionnydd, and previously Meirionnydd Nant Conwy, in the House of Commons for more than 20 years, has served as an independent member of Aberystwyth University Council, taking up that role in 2015

The 69-year-old will now continue his long association with the university, taking up the honorary role of Pro-Chancellor which consists of ambassadorial and ceremonial duties, including presiding over university graduation ceremonies.

The Chancellor of Aberystwyth University, Lord Thomas of Cwmgïedd, said: “I am delighted that Elfyn has accepted this role which continues his long and committed association with Aberystwyth University.

“It is so satisfying to see a distinguished alumnus who has played such a significant role in the life of the nation strengthen his links with us at Aberystwyth by helping us in this way.

“I look forward to working with Elfyn and our other Pro-Chancellor, Dame Elan Closs Stephens, as we continue to play our roles in the life of this wonderful University.”

The new Pro-Chancellor of Aberystwyth University, Elfyn Llwyd said: “I am greatly honoured to take up this role, and to continue my relationship with the University where I was fortunate enough to be a student myself.

“I look forward to working with Lord Thomas, Dame Elan, the University Council and staff, as well as the students within this wonderful and historic seat of learning.

“I am very pleased and proud to get this opportunity to continue to give back to Aberystwyth, a university and a town which mean so much to me.”

Chair of Aberystwyth University’s Council, Dr Emyr Roberts said: “Elfyn has been a wonderful servant of Aberystwyth University as a valued member of our University Council, and more recently as vice-vhair of Council.

“It has been a pleasure to work with him in that capacity, and I am so pleased that Elfyn will continue to contribute in his new honorary capacity.

“I offer my warmest congratulations to Elfyn on his appointment and look forward to working with him in future.”

Mr Llwyd, who was first elected to the UK Parliament at the 1992 general election, represented Aberystwyth University on a special Christmas edition of the famous BBC show University Challenge in 2013.

He was re-elected in 1997, 2001, and 2005 and took the newly configured Dwyfor Meirionnydd seat at the general election in 2010 with 44.3 per cent of the vote.