Paul Smith at NTU

Designer Paul Smith is pictured viewing fashion students' work during a recent visit to Nottingham Trent University. Smith met with staff and students across a range of courses and was given a tour of the university's signature Newton and Arkwright buildings, which have just been regenerated as part of an ambitious £90m scheme.

As well viewing fashion, knitwear and textiles work, Smith was also introduced to interior architecture and design students who are working on a project which involves designing unusual retail spaces. Smith said: "Oh to be a student today, especially there, the facilities are fantastic, everything is very state-of-the-art."

Smith has strong ties with the city of Nottingham - where he opened his first boutique in 1970 - and Nottingham Trent University. The designer funds an international scholarship scheme with the university and each year sponsors two talented Japanese students to undertake postgraduate studies in its School of Art and Design in Nottingham. A number of Masters students from Nottingham Trent University, meanwhile, are supported to spend time developing and broadening their design skills at two respected universities in Tokyo.