A PROLIFIC inventor whose innovations feature in almost every kitchen in the country has been recognised with an honorary doctorate.

Dr John C Taylor may not be a household name, but as the inventor of the small thermostat which means kettles switch off as they boil, his work certainly features in most people’s homes.

In recognition of his achievements in science and business, Dr Taylor, who has more than 400 patents to his name, was given an honorary doctorate by Durham University at a graduation ceremony yesterday.

Also awarded an honorary degree was popular folk musician Kathryn Tickell, in recognition of her contribution to music.

Dr Taylor, a guest lecturer at the university, is also the inventor of the Chronophage clock, which has a unique mechanism whichs shows the time without using hands.

He said: “Being awarded an honorary doctorate in science from such a distinguished university as Durham is a surprise and a source of great pride.

“What makes it particularly special for me is that this is where my son Neil graduated with a first in engineering in 1991.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to lecture at Durham, in particular offering the sort of practical advice that can help young engineers and inventors to turn a good idea into a viable business.

“The United Kingdom is known around the world for its innovation and I think it’s important to support the innovators of the future, who will help the community by creating jobs, money and opportunities for others.”

He invented the bi-metal thermostat while working for his father’s family business, Otter Controls, as a solution to the problem of early electric kettles not switching off when the water starts boiling.

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Folk artist Kathryn Tickell, an acclaimed performer of the Northumbria pipes, was also handed an honorary degree at a ceremony yesterday.

She said: “I’ve always had a strong connection with Durham because my granddad was a pitman in County Durham and my dad was born here. I remember being brought to the Miners’ Gala by my granddad and Durham is a place that looms large in my life. That adds an extra depth to what was already a very meaningful day for me.

“I kept thinking of my granddad throughout. I just wish he had been here to see his granddaughter being given this honour. He wouldn’t have believed it. I can’t quite believe it.

“It’s fantastic to be honoured in this very impressive cathedral, where I’ve played many times, and to have the honour conferred by Sir Tom, well, I started to get a little bit tearful. We have that connection through music and passion for the North-East and I can’t think of anyone better to receive the degree from.”

Ms Tickell, who founded the Young Musicians Fund for young people in the North-East, was given an OBE in 2015 and received a Queen’s Medal for music in 2009.