College dean Kim Plunkett has quit - over plans for a barbecue party, writes Andrew Ffrench.

The dean of St Hugh's College resigned after his decision not to allow a charity bash in aid of Kosovo refugees was over-ruled by the principal.

Undergraduates at St Hugh's were disappointed when psychology lecturer Dr Plunkett vetoed the barbecue because it clashed with a college disco.

But principal Derek Wood over-ruled him, telling students they could hold the fundraising bash in his own private garden, next to college grounds in St Margaret's Road. When Dr Plunkett learned the barbecue was back on, he phoned the principal and resigned.

Raphael Mokades, 20, president of the 450 students' Junior Common Room at St Hugh's, said: "From what I understand, when Dr Plunkett realised Mr Wood had undermined his authority, he telephoned him and resigned on the spot.

"This has caused quite a stir. In February last year, the Dean banned all social events and parties and even threatened to close the bar.

"This was in response to what he claimed were instances of vandalism, but students thought the way he approached the issue was really heavy-handed." Dr Plunkett, a Fellow of St Hugh's, had been Dean since October 1997, and was responsible for student discipline. His University title is Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, and he is often seen driving a red sports car.

A University spokesman said: "We can confirm that Dr Plunkett has resigned as dean at St Hugh's but we aren't sure yet if this means he is resigning as experimental psychology tutor as well, because sometimes the posts are linked. He will stay on until the end of term." In 1987, the century-old St Hugh's agreed to admit male undergraduates for the first time. Former students include 1970s Labour cabinet minister Baroness Castle and author Joanna Trollope. In 1991, Baroness Castle opened a new £2.8m building at the college.

Neither Dr Plunkett nor Mr Wood was available for comment.

Story date: Thursday 20 May

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