INTERNATIONAL opera singer Sir Thomas Allen is to step down as the head of Durham University after more than a decade in the role.
Sir Thomas, who is originally from Seaham Harbour in County Durham, took up his position as Chancellor of Durham University in 2012.
He succeeded the author Bill Bryson, continuing a long connection with the university that started when he was a talented schoolboy musician.
Sir Thomas, who is one of the university’s longest serving Chancellors, will step down in July 2022 after presiding at the summer graduation ceremonies.
An international search is underway for his successor.
The Chancellor is the Head of the University and is a member of the Council and of Convocation.
Duties are ceremonial, including graduations and receptions, as well as pastoral, scholarly and ambassadorial.
Previous incumbents include Henry Percy, 7th Duke of Northumberland; the ballerina Dame Margot Fonteyn; and actor and filmmaker Sir Peter Ustinov.
Durham University Orchestral Society joined by Sir Thomas Allen to rehearse a concert in 2013 Picture: Andrew Bennison
Announcing the decision, Sir Thomas spoke of the “glorious” ten years in his eclectic role.
He said: “Durham has always held a very special place in my heart and it was a tremendous privilege to accept this role in 2011.
“It has exceeded all expectations. I have particularly found it a special honour to be a part of the University congregations.
"This is one of the biggest days in the lives of our students and their families who come from all over the world to celebrate graduations in the majestic surroundings of the Cathedral.”
Durham University Orchestral Society Sir Thomas Allen Concert at Durham Cathedral in June 2013 Picture: Andrew Bennison
Joe Docherty, Chair of Durham University’s supreme governing body, University Council, said: “Sir Thomas has devoted time, passion and commitment to the University over the last decade, across so many fronts. We will be very sorry to say goodbye to him and we are immensely grateful for his service.”
Professor Antony Long, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Warden of Durham University, said: “Sir Thomas Allen has given spectacular service to the University and has been an excellent embodiment of our values in all that he has undertaken in his role.
“From presiding at countless graduation ceremonies to taking part in student concerts, including performing alongside our musicians for Prince Charles at Durham Cathedral.
"It has been a privilege to know and work alongside him.”
Durham University Orchestral Society Sir Thomas Allen Concert in the Nave of Durham Cathedral in June 2013 Picture: Andrew Bennison
Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can also follow our dedicated County Durham Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.
For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.
Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here