November 10th 1998: Official opening of the St. George's Vaccine Institute

By Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Chancellor of the University of London

The St. George's Vaccine Institute was officially opened on Tuesday November 10th by HRH Princess Anne, Chancellor of the University of London, upon completion of Phase II of the Institute.  

After a welcome from the Principal, Professor Robert Boyd, and presentations by the Institute Director Professor George E. Griffin on the history and development of the Institute and by the Deputy Director Dr. David JM Lewis on the research ongoing and planned, Her Royal Highness toured the facilities. During her tour she was introduced to various members of staff and subjects undergoing studies at the Institute, and the various specialized equipment was demonstrated by the commissioning engineers.

Her Royal Highness unveiled a mosaic, commissioned from a local artist Marian Brandis, and plaque to commemorate her visit.

After the unveiling, Professor Griffin explained the features incorporated into the mosaic to highlight the theme of 'protection' afforded by immunisation.

Before her departure Her Royal Highness was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Miss Rose Lewis, age 7.