Edinburgh University ditches 150-year-old graduation cap tradition

The University of Edinburgh has ditched its 150-year-old graduation cap tradition - linked to a founding father of the Protestant Reformation.

The Geneva Bonnet, also known as the John Knox Cap, will no longer be used to tap the head of graduating students.

The black velvet and silk cap is said to have been made in Edinburgh from the trousers of Knox in 1849.

The university declined to confirm why the tradition has ended. It said arrangements had been made for graduations to "take place as smoothly as possible".

Knox, who founded the Presbyterian church in Scotland, famously challenged the Catholic Mary, Queen of Scots.

In 2000 the ceremonial hat went through restoration carried out by tailors Ede & Ravenscroft, who provide graduation gowns across the country.

During the work, inked paper fragments were discovered in the inner lining of the cap, with the words ''Henry Banks 22 Duke Street Edinr 31 July 1849''.

It was later discovered that Henry Banks was a successful merchant tailor.

The University of Edinburgh said graduation ceremonies in McEwan Hall continued to be "joyous occasions for our students, their families and supporters".

A spokesperson added: "These events mark years of effort and achievement, and our priority is to ensure they remain focused on celebrating this significant milestone for our graduating students.

"Therefore, arrangements have been made to help ensure the proceedings take place as smoothly as possible."