ITV Chairman to be honoured by Sunderland University

ITV Chairman Sir Peter Bazalgette will be among those honoured by Sunderland University in recognition of their outstanding contribution to their industries.

The Honoraries will be joined by almost 3,000 graduates receiving awards from University Chancellor Steve Cram CBE, during a week of ceremonies at the Stadium of Light between July 4 and 8.

Sir Peter, who is also Chairman of Arts Council England, will be honoured with a Doctorate of Arts.Sir Peter, who popularised Big Brother, created Deal or No Deal, Ready Steady Cook, Changing Rooms and Ground Force, and was once named “the most influential figure in British television” is a Fellow of Bafta and the Royal Television Society. He has raised funds for arts and media organisations, notably as Chairman of the Crossness Engines Trust (a steam museum) and as Deputy Chairman of the National Film and Television School. He is also the former Chair of English National Opera.

Nissan's Vice President for UK manufacturing operations, Kevin Fitzpatrick, will be honoured with a Doctorate of Technology.

Receiving an Honorary Fellowship will be the longest-serving editor in the history of the Northern Echo, Peter Barron, who stepped down earlier this year after 17 years at the helm.