Feminist writer Germaine Greer is seeking to become the next rector of St Andrews University - despite being dropped by the student who put her name forward.

The person who proposed the 63-year-old author has switched allegiance to writer and broadcaster Sir Clement Freud.

But Ms Greer said she had decided to press ahead with her candidacy after encouragement from students at the university, where Prince William is among the undergraduates.

Students will cast their votes this month

Ms Greer, the author of The Female Eunuch, said: "I'm still standing despite the machinations of the young Conservative who originally approached me and evidently intended to use me as a stalking horse," she said.

"My candidacy was originally proposed in March by two members of the student community independently.

"As soon as I was sure that I was eligible and there was no conflict with my professorship at Warwick University, I accepted the nomination."

Andrew Neil, the editor-in-chief of Scotsman publications, is currently rector at the Fife university.

"I reckon I'm more lively than the worthy Andrew Neil and even, God save the mark, than Clement Freud," added Ms Greer.

Student vote

"As for my feminism, the students of 2002 expect nothing less."

Students will vote for their new rector this month.

The candidates also include Chris Woodhead, the controversial former chief inspector of schools.

Barry Joss, a former post graduate student who had earlier sought to nominate Weakest Link presenter Anne Robinson, is also standing for the post.