The man at the helm of Arts Council England and Chairman of ITV received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from the University of Sunderland.
Sir Peter Bazalgette, who popularised Big Brother, created Deal or No Deal, Ready Steady Cook, Changing Rooms and Ground Force, and was once named “the most influential figure in British television” received his award at the Stadium of Light in July, during the University’s Summer Graduation ceremonies.
Sir Peter, who is a Fellow of Bafta and the Royal Television Society, commented: “I'm dead chuffed to get this award from a University that is such a great supporter of creative industries and partner of the Arts Council."
Sir Peter has raised funds for arts and media organisations, notably as Chair of the Crossness Engines Trust (a steam museum) and as Deputy Chair of the National Film and Television School, and is the former Chair of English National Opera.