TV presenter takes on new role at university

Farmer and TV presenter Jimmy Doherty has taken on a new role at a university.

The host of shows including Jimmy's Farm has become a visiting professor at Anglia Ruskin University, which has bases in Essex and Cambridgeshire.

Doherty has run Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park near Ipswich since 2002.

He described his role at the university's new Writtle School of Agriculture, Animal and Environmental Sciences as a "real privilege".

"I’ve had the incredible honour of being chancellor of Writtle University College and I’m thrilled my connection with Writtle is continuing following the merger with Anglia Ruskin University," he said.

"To be involved with Anglia Ruskin University is a real privilege.

"There are so many strong connections between the work that I do and the fantastic research and teaching taking place at ARU Writtle, so I can’t wait to get started in my new role of visiting professor, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists, farmers and conservationists."

In conjunction with Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park, the university will run joint education and research projects.

There are also plans to include a new PhD studentship in conservation.

Anglia Ruskin University merged with Writtle University College in February, and the 150-hectare (370 acres) campus on the outskirts of Chelmsford became ARU Writtle.

Professor Laurie Butler, pro-vice chancellor, said the university was "immensely proud" to be working with Doherty.

"Science and innovation have inspired Jimmy throughout his career journey, and we know his knowledge, expertise and personal experiences will help to support and influence students across disciplines, including the life sciences, animal behaviour, agriculture and conservation," he said.

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