Seven questions with Phineas

Why did you choose UCL?

I would say UCLU chose me rather than the other way around.

My links with UCL were established as far back as the turn of the 20th century. On a spring morning in March 1900, the news of the relief of Ladysmith, one of the most famous incidents in the Boer War in South Africa, caused a mass celebration in UCL's Quad and the surrounding areas. 

In the midst of the celebrations, some enterprising students liberated me from Catesby's, a carpet shop on Tottenham Court Road. This was the first of many occasions in which I 'joined' the students, up until my permanent adoption as UCL mascot some years later.

What is the most interesting thing you've done, seen or got involved with whilst at UCL?

In 1922, I was kidnapped for the first time by a group of students from King's College London (KCL).  However UCL had an extensive network of spies within King's and made a successful attempt to win me back. However, it took an hour of intense hand-to-hand combat followed by an armistice, before I was returned to my rightful owners. 

I've been back and forth between UCL and KCL ever since. I occasionally get kidnapped when our rivals on the Strand get sore about losing the rugby.

It's been a bit less stressful recently, although this year I am helping UCLU with the London Varsity Series (6 March-13 March), where I am hoping we can show King's the extent of our athletic abilities through good honest matches. Here's hoping.

Where is your favourite place on campus?

It has to be my home, the Phineas Bar on 25 Gordon Street.

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

I love to wander round the UCL Quad on sunny days, especially during election season, which is taking place this year from 26 February to 6 March, because there are so many students out talking to each other.  

I also like to head out to Shenley or Allianz Park and watch our sports teams win. I am especially looking forward to Varsity and hope that the UCL contingent turns out in force to see us take on King's. 

I also quite like a relaxing drink in my bar after a game.

If you were to switch departments or courses at UCL, what would you study instead and why?

I was a craftsman myself back in the day, so I'd probably opt for art or a course at UCL Bartlett.

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

UCL's other famous icon - Jeremy Bentham.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I'm actually really good at long distance running.

Useful Links

• London Varsity Series
• The history of Phineas
• UCLU spring elections