ABOUT 1,500 Hampshire students celebrated their college's 25th anniversary in a unique way.

The students and staff at Alton College gathered on the playing field to form an XXV, the Roman numerals for 25.

Lee Harper and Tom Burton, two students of further maths, calculated the angles and lengths of the XXV needed to accommodate such a crowd.

Student Amy Charlewood said: "It was quite impressive to see all the students in one place. At college, you don't usually see everyone in one place." Another, Jenni Ashton, said: "I felt a part of college history."

The day was marked by the official opening of its new library, IT centre, sports hall and childcare centre by Godfrey Smith, the Sunday Times columnist.

It was a notable milestone too for the college principal Michael Gray, who was also celebrating his silver anniversary in charge.

Mr Gray, who took over when it became a sixth-form college in 1978, is due to retire later this year.

Later staff met up in the staff room for birthday cake and a celebratory drink.