A HAMPSHIRE university has scooped a top award at an annual event.

Southampton Solent University has won the Most Improved University at the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) National Awards.

Competing against 160 other institutions in the UK, it is the showcase event at the end of along sporting calendar with ‘The Most Improved’ accolade going to those who have risen the most in the BUCS ranking table over the last season.

It comes after one of the Solent’s most successful seasons of sport to date after they climbed 13 places with an additional 240 points.

Vice chancellor Professor Graham Baldwin said: “We are delighted to receive Most Improved University at the BUCS awards after such a successful sporting year.

“There were many contributing factors to this rise, such as the performances of the men’s and ladies cricket & basketball teams, and other league wins from teams such as men’s rugby, men’s squash, and ladies football to name just a few.

“Congratulations to all of our students, coaches and staff at Solent Sport who’ve worked hard this year to make this all happen.”

The success is also a reflection of changes to Solent Sport’s strategy, said the university’s head of Solent sport. Martin Nailor.

He added: “It proves that developing a good strategy, especially during challenging times, is vital, as is having a good team who understand it and who can find the tactics to deliver it. “Well done and thank you to all involved in this fantastic achievement. Now the hard work really starts as we look to sustain our position and continue to look at ways in which we can improve our position.”