Member Article

Wallace and Gromit producer to get honorary degree

The co-founder of the animations company behind ‘Wallace and Gromit’, David Sproxton, is one of nine to be awarded an honorary degree from Durham University this month. Having graduated from Durham University 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 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.’

Other recipients of honorary degrees alongside David Sproxton include Durham-based sculptor Fenwick Lawson and former Vice-Chancellor of Durham University and Chancellor of Glasgow University, Professor Sir Kenneth Calman.

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. “It’s 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.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .