Honorary degrees for Earl of Derby and Sir Drummond Bone

Jul 2 2008 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

A NOBLEMAN and a departing university vice-chancellor were awarded honorary degrees for their services to Merseyside today.

The University of Liverpool gave the honours to Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby and the university’s current vice-chancellor, Professor Sir Drummond Bone, who is standing down at the end of July.

Both men have been heavily involved in institutions that have shaped modern Liverpool and Merseyside.

Lord Derby was honoured for his public contribution to the region. The Earl has held key positions in the governance of such bodies as National Museums Liverpool, the Liverpool Council of Social Services, and the Knowsley and Liverpool Chambers of Commerce as well as honorary positions in local charitable, sporting and business organisations.

He said yesterday before the ceremony: “It is a huge honour, I was completely amazed to be invited to receive it.

“The highlight of my time spend working with Merseyside organisations has been Liverpool 08, when I think the city really has shown what it has to offer.

“It is wonderful to see how Liverpool is coming together and how everyone is enjoying the events.