Durham alumnus David Sproxton, CBE – co-founder and trustee of the animation studio behind Wallace & Gromit – has been knighted in The King’s Birthday Honours.
Sir David, who graduated from Durham in 1976 (Geography/Collingwood College), receives the honour for services to the animation industry, the creative industries and to charity.
After leaving Durham, Sir David and Sir Peter Lord, CBE created the character Morph for British television programme Take Hart.
Together they went on to found Aardman Animations, the studio behind the award-winning Wallace & Gromit titles, Shaun the Sheep, and memorable films such as Chicken Run.
In 2008, Sir David was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Letters by Durham University.
On receiving his honorary degree, Sir David said: "Durham was my first choice and I remember signing up to Collingwood College because it was new and co-educational.
"I always knew it was unlikely I would use my (Geography) degree directly in what I did, as I had my eyes firmly fixed on the film and TV business, but there's no doubt that what I learnt has stayed with me."
Sir David is one of several Durham alumni, honorary degree recipients, and friends of the University who have been honoured by His Majesty King Charles III.
We’re inspired by all members of the Durham University community who have been recognised for their outstanding achievements.
Congratulations to everyone who has been honoured.
The King’s Birthday Honours list can be read in The Gazette Official Public Record.
For more information or enquiries on the University's approach to honours, please contact Lucian Hudson, Executive Director, Communications and External Relations on communications.team@durham.ac.uk.
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