TV icon and global journalist become UCLan Honorary Fellows

Blue Peter presenter Peter Purves and BBC TV journalist Peter Burdin are among the University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) newest Honorary Fellows.

Peter Purves, who hosted the popular children’s TV show in the 1960s and 70s, and Peter Burdin, whose career with the famous news corporation spanned more than 30 years, took to stage of UCLan’s Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre this week to receive their prestigious awards.

Peter Purves’ career on the small screen has spanned more than 60 years with his first notable role as Steven Taylor, a famous companion of Doctor Who. His love for the role led him to take part in a recent award-winning UCLan project, which saw students and staff remake the lost 1960s Doctor Who episode ‘Mission to the Unknown’.

He was born in Preston and raised in nearby New Longton before spending his first 18 years in Blackpool. He co-presented Blue Peter for 11 years during its heyday and has presented the world-famous dog show Crufts for 41 years.

The 83-year-old received the prestigious award to acknowledge the significant contribution he has made in services to television, acting and presenting.

He said: “Having been born in Preston, this is my part of the world, so I’m just absolutely thrilled they’ve honoured me in such a special way. I was absolutely knocked sideways when I was asked so I feel very privileged to be here.”

Peter Burdin was recognised for his significant contribution to journalism and the mentoring and training of journalists.

He was based in Africa and delivered exclusive coverage on a range of huge events, including the death of President Nelson Mandela. He was raised close to Preston and retired from the BBC in 2016.

He now uses his skills to mentor and train young journalists through his own media company. He also became one of UCLan’s Leaders in Residence and collaborates with journalism academics.

Music lawyer and author Ann Harrison and Ambassador Enna Park received Honorary Doctorates.

Ann was honoured to recognise the significant contribution she has made to the development of music business education. The lawyer and author is a consultant at an entertainment law firm and she has been instrumental in planning and delivering some of the biggest deals in modern music.

Ann has made a significant contribution to the development of music law education at national and international levels while her book is widely regarded as a key text for anyone studying on music related courses. She is also one of UCLan’s Leaders in Residence.

Enna was acknowledged for the significant contribution she has made to diplomacy and the development of Korean studies internationally. In her 37-year career as a diplomat, Enna took posts at the United Nations plus the Korean Embassies in India and China.

She made a huge impact on broadening and deepening Korean studies abroad while she served as Ambassador for Public Diplomacy and it was in her role as Korean Ambassador to the UK that she played a key role in the Korean Embassy’s visit to UCLan. Enna was instrumental in UCLan being awarded a special status by the Korean Embassy.

More than 2,000 students donned their academic caps and gowns to graduate during the three days of ceremonies.

Did you graduate from UCLan last year or attend the ceremonies? Let us know in the comments.