Bangor University will face Middlesex University  University in the semi-final of a special Christmas edition of University Challenge.

The Christmas series features distinguished alumni from a number of universities who have produced some of the finest minds, and their alumni are set to showcase their intellectual mettle in this holiday edition. From journalists and TV presenters, to politicians and academics.

Amol Rajan says: “The holiday season is the perfect time to celebrate not only the joy of the season but also the brilliance of the minds that have emerged from these esteemed institutions. The University Challenge Christmas Series is a unique blend of festive cheer and intellectual competition, I can’t wait for viewers to join us. I’m also thrilled to report that after much excitable feedback on social media, the new black chair in which I sit is proportionately lower. Never let is be said that we fail to respond to our beloved national community of quizzers”

Peter Gwyn, Executive Producer: “We’re thrilled that so many fine minds and well known faces have agreed to entertain us over the festive season by taking on the kind of questions we usually throw at our brainiest students. Some very merry ding-dongs lie ahead!”

Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment Commissioning at the BBC says: “I’m delighted that viewers get to enjoy another year of University Challenge’s festive fun with Amol Rajan. Get ready for a merry collision of wit and wisdom as our teams battle it out.

Bangor University:

Juno Dawson, Award-winning author of Young Adult fiction (This Book Is Gay; Clean; Meat Market) and non-fiction (The Gender Games)

David Neal, Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration; formerly Provost Marshal of the British Army and commander of the First Military Police Brigade.

Andy Clements, Chair of the England Species Reintroduction Taskforce; former CEO of the British Trust for Ornithology

Hywel Williams, MP for Arfon since 2001 (Plaid Cymru)

The programme featuring Bangor University will be broadcast on Thursday 28 December 2023 at 8.30pm on BBC TWO.

The winning team from tonight’s semi-final will face Corpus Christi College, Oxford, in the final on 29th December. 

Photo: BBC