Dr Tony McEnery, of the University of Lancaster's Department of Linguistics, who has compiled a huge database of modern English usage, says children and teenagers are "quite productive" in their use of abusive language.

BBC: Refugee: today's playground insult?

Professor Linda Woodhead, professor of sociology of religion at Lancaster University and co-host of the Westminster Faith Debates, said modern medicine advances had seen a change in people's attitudes about death.

BBC: Assisted suicide 'supported' by religious Britons

Director of the Lancaster China Management Centre at Lancaster University Management School Professor David Brown, said the institution was one of the first in the UK to forge links with the country.

BBC: Lancaster University wins award for China links