A HISTORIC university club which attracted criticism for its men-only stance has voted to let women become members.
The Kate Kennedy Club at St Andrews University agreed to change its policy at a meeting held earlier this week.
The club said it will accept applications from any first-year student in the next academic year.
The move comes after two existing members reportedly broke away from the exclusive club and formed a splinter group, the Kate Kennedy Fellowship, which would admit women.
University Principal Professor Louise Richardson said she was "delighted" with the club's decision.
The university – Scotland's oldest – cut its ties with the club in 2009, saying its values were "completely at odds" with the those of the institution.
The society was founded in 1926, although its origins date back to the early 15th century.
It is famous for its annual spring procession through the town, traditionally led by a male student dressed as a woman.
On her installation three years ago as the first female principal of the university, Dr Richardson said she could not endorse a club "from which so many of our students are excluded at birth".
She said yesterday: "I am delighted to welcome the decision by the Kate Kennedy Club."
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