TV explorer appointed university chancellor

Author and photographer Levison Wood will take over the role at Staffordshire University

An explorer and adventurer who has travelled to more than a hundred countries has been announced as the new chancellor of a university.

Levison Wood, from Forsbrook, Staffordshire, will take over the ceremonial role at Staffordshire University in a special ceremony on 1 May.

“I grew up in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and am incredibly honoured to be asked to take on such a prestigious role with my local university," he said.

He succeeds Lord Stafford who has been the university's chancellor since 2014.

The honorary position was created when the establishment gained university status in 1992.

'Too good to pass up'

Mr Wood, a former captain in the Parachute Regiment, has been on expeditions including walking the length of the River Nile, crossing the Himalayas and central America and hitch-hiking from England to India and back.

An author and photographer, the 41-year-old was made an honorary doctor of Staffordshire University in 2017.

“As a boy I started out exploring the Peak District and that, combined with my experience of studying a history degree at Nottingham University, prepared me well for a lifetime of adventure," he said.

"This opportunity to inspire others to be who they want to be and push boundaries is too good to pass up."

Prof Martin Jones, Staffordshire's vice-chancellor, said the university was "thrilled" Mr Levison agreed to take on the role.