Opera singer Dame Janet Baker will stand down from her role as chancellor of the University of York next year.

The 69-year-old York-born singer and actress has announced that she intends to retire next July from the post she has held for 12 years.

University leaders have now set up a committee of academic staff and lay members to consider nominations for her successor.

Spokeswoman Hilary Layton said the celebrated mezzo-soprano, who was the University's fourth chancellor, would be a "hard act to follow."

She added: "The committee is looking for a person who is distinguished in their field, who has a strong interest in the University and would serve as a good ambassador for it."

Dame Janet, who was made a Companion of Honour in 1994, retired from opera in 1982 after a glittering career that saw her achieve international fame.

Off the stage, she serves as a trustee for the Foundation of Sport and the Arts and president of the York Mystery Plays.

Updated: 10:21 Monday, March 24, 2003