A book of condolences for the late Lord Attenborough has been opened at the University of Leicester.
Lord Attenborough, who died aged 90, was raised with his brothers on the campus where his father, Frederick Attenborough, was the principal of the University College – a forerunner to the university. Their former home, College House, is still located on the site.
Vice-chancellor Professor Robert Burgess paid tribute to a figure he described as "aspirational, inspiring and creative – a man with sheer energy and dynamism".
Professor Burgess said: "He was a wonderful actor, a splendid director and a marvellous person who was always encouraging and supportive.
"He was a great contributor to many different aspects of society in a very effective way."
Lord Attenborough was a frequent visitor and a supporter of the university.
In 1970, he became an honorary graduate and in 2006 he was made a Distinguished Honorary Fellow – the highest award the university can bestow.
He helped found the inclusive arts centre at the University of Leicester to which he gave his name. The centre was formally opened in 1997 by Diana, Princess of Wales, who was accompanied by Lord Attenborough.
Louisa Milburn, co-director of Embrace Arts, the University of Leicester arts centre housed in the Richard Attenborough Centre, said: "A long-time supporter of disability and the arts, Richard spearheaded the campaign that led to the opening of the Richard Attenborough Centre in 1997.
"He was passionate about access to high quality arts provision for everyone and the centre gives opportunities to engage, create and experience a wide variety of activity: from creative learning to a vibrant events programme.
"When I arrived at the university in 2005, Richard was one of the first people to contact me to congratulate me on my appointment. He continued to be a great supporter of the centre and a personal mentor.
"Richard was a great believer in creating positive change and was excited about the planned gallery extension at Embrace Arts due to open in 2015."
The Richard Attenborough Centre has set up a dedicated site for tributes which can be accessed at:
www2.le.ac.uk/hosted/ embracearts/about/richard- attenborough
A book of condolences is also available in the Richard Attenborough Centre, in Lancaster Road.
