News

Wallace and Gromit producer to get honorary degree

(12 June 2008)

David Sproxton

Durham University graduate and co-founder of Aardman Animations Ltd, David Sproxton, is soon to receive an honorary degree.

David is one of nine to be awarded an honorary degree from Durham University later this month (June 2008). Having graduated in Geography in 1976, David co-founded what is now one of the greatest animation houses in the industry, Aardman Animations Ltd. The company was first famous for its creation of the legendary character of Morph who went on to star in the BBC series ‘The Amazing Adventures of Morph.’ Together with co-founder Peter Lord, David went on to produce Aardman’s first feature film, ‘Chicken Run’ in association with Dreamworks and ‘Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.’ Alongside David Sproxton, other pivotal figures in art, medicine, business and education are to receive honorary degrees in recognition of their significant national and international contributions. All graduates have strong Durham University connections. The graduates include influential, Durham-based sculptor Fenwick Lawson, whose most recent sculpture is to be erected in Durham City Centre; former Vice-Chancellor of Durham University and Chancellor of Glasgow University, Professor Sir Kenneth Calman; and two additional Durham alum Professor Sir Nicholas Wright, warden of Barts and The London medical school; and Christopher John Lendrum, former Chief Executive of Corporate Banking for Barclay’s Bank. Also receiving awards are four long-serving members of Durham University staff: Derek Hudspeth, Departmental Superintendent for Geography for 44 years; Dorothy Anson, who held several administrative positions at the University since 1960; Thomas Caygill, Departmental Superintendent for Chemistry, until January 2008; and Michael Church who is a long-standing former lecturer in Geography. The ceremonies, which will take place from 24 to 27 June, are to be held in Durham Cathedral. Each honorary degree, to be conferred by Chancellor Bill Bryson, will be awarded as part of a student graduation ceremony. Professor Chris Higgins, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, said: “It is a privilege to honour the inspirational dedication and exceptional accomplishments of these individuals linked to Durham University who have provided a national and international benchmark for achievement in their respective fields. “Durham University seeks to reward excellence and the honorary degree is the highest accolade a University can bestow, recognising that these individuals have succeeded in reaching a remarkable level of achievement.” David Sproxton said: "It has to be said that whilst I worked hard at my degree, in the end I found myself getting involved in Durham University Theatre on the technical side. I've always had a love of light and photography and having the opportunity to light stage-shows was just too good resist. “I have happy memories of spending time in the Assembly Rooms running up and down ladders rigging lights and then sitting in the control box working the shows. “I was very influenced by a number of my tutors, like Ian Simmons and especially Ray Hudson who had a profound effect on the way I looked at political and economic geographical issues. It's therefore wonderful to be nominated for this Honorary Degree by someone who made me see the world in a different way and has influenced my thinking ever since.“ Fenwick Lawson said: “I am delighted to have been offered this Honorary Doctorate degree coming, as it did, with some surprise. For me the honour is very special because I am Durham County born and have lived and worked in the region for most of my life. “Durham is the source and inspiration for my work: Durham is my identity. I have been involved with the University for some thirty years as a Senior Common Room Member of Hatfield College and it gives me great pleasure in the anticipation of a continued participation in the cultural life of the University.”